Ohio Cooperative Living – May 2026 - Guernsey-Muskingum

OHIO COOPERATIVE

Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative

Labor of love

Be SAFE around LIGHTNING

If you hear thunder, you are close enough to get struck by lightning.

Seek shelter indoors:

• Refrain from using corded electrical devices

• Avoid running water, including baths and showers, and stay away from windows

• Stay in shelter until 30 minutes after the last thunder

If you can’t get to shelter:

• Avoid open fields and hilltops

• Stay away from tall, isolated trees and objects

• Spread out from others if you’re in a group

ohioec.org/purpose

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MAY 2026

INSIDE

TRAVEL ISSUE

23 LIGHTHOUSE LIVING

Fairport Harbor’s ‘Lighthouse Lady’ is restoring the guardian of the Grand River one slow step at a time.

26 FESTIVALS OF FOOD

On just about any weekend of the year, one Ohio community or another is showing off its love of — and pride in — its favorite food.

32 TRAIL TOWN MAGIC

Many of the small towns that dot the Buckeye Trail are shaping a new kind of Ohio hospitality experience.

Cover image on most editions: The West Breakwater Light, a lighthouse situated where the Grand River flows into Lake Erie, had been abandoned for 60 years but is now on the National Register of Historic Places (photograph by W.H. Chip Gross)

This page: Line crews from electric cooperatives across Ohio and surrounding states jumped into action to help restore power in areas hit hard by a windstorm in March. Here, a crew from Indiana prepares to replace a damaged pole in Carroll County.

Reminder from Mother Nature

The violent windstorm that swept across Ohio and much of the rest of the Midwest on March 13 was a powerful reminder about how quickly the weather can change — and how much we all depend on electricity in our daily lives.

Gusts were strong enough to bring down trees, snap utility poles, peel shingles, and unceremoniously toss around just about anything that wasn’t tied down. In other words, it was the kind of weather that makes folks worry about whether or not their lights will stay on.

At your electric cooperative, preparing for times like that is year-round work — not just when a storm shows up on the radar. Co-op crews spend countless hours inspecting poles and lines, replacing worn equipment, and generally strengthening the system, piece by piece. The goal is both vital and straightforward: Find problems before a storm finds them.

Because most wind-related outages start with trees, co-ops invest significantly in right-of-way maintenance — keeping trees and other vegetation away from power lines. It’s the first line of defense and one of the most effective tools in a co-op’s arsenal to prevent outages.

Sometimes, however, Mother Nature demonstrates that even the best preparation has limits; some storms simply are stronger than the systems built to withstand them, and when widespread winds whip up and trees start coming down, damage can add up pretty quickly.

That’s why readiness goes beyond well-maintained equipment and clear rights-of-way. It takes a dedicated team of people to restore power, and when damage is both severe and widespread, co-ops sometimes have to reach out for help, as several did in response to that mid-March storm. It showed yet again that mutual aid — the practice of co-ops helping co-ops — is one of the greatest strengths of the cooperative network, as you will read in our story on page 4

The storm was also a time to remember that line work can be both dangerous and demanding, even in the best of conditions, and restoration work after a storm is even more so. Everyone at the co-op understands how frustrating it can be to lose power, but they also know that safety must come first. Every. Single. Time. Any time power goes out, cooperative crews will respond as quickly as possible, but their responsibility to go home at the end of the day is sacred, and they take it seriously.

It might demand a little more patience from members while the lineworkers do their job as quickly, and safely, as possible, because at times like that members can be assured of two things: your co-op will always show up and when they do, they will do the job the right way.

Thank you for your continued support, but especially when the weather makes a tough job even tougher.

Craig Grooms PRESIDENT & CEO OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

Co-ops spend countless hours strengthening the system, piece by piece. The goal is simple and straightforward: Find problems before a storm finds them.

Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives

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

Craig Grooms President & CEO

Caryn Whitney Director of Communications

Jeff McCallister Senior Managing Editor

Amy Howat Assistant Managing Editor

Neal Kindig Graphic Designer

Contributors: Colleen Romick Clark, Getty Images, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Jill Moorhead, Catherine Murray, and Margie Wuebker.

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

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

DEPARTMENTS

4 POWER LINES

Gusts, grit, and the power of cooperation: When a storm disrupts power to 88,000 members, co-ops call on mutual aid for help in a hurry.

10

CO-OP PEOPLE

A tradition of showing up: Blood drives are a point of pride for one co-op member — and an entire community.

12 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

Explorer: Hall of Fame outdoors writer brought the world home to his readers in the Buckeye State.

15

GOOD EATS

Microwave meals: When time’s short and appetites are long, these dishes are ready in a flash.

19 LOCAL PAGES

News and other important information from your electric cooperative.

37 CALENDAR

What’s happening: May/June events and other things to do around Ohio.

National/regional advertising inquiries, contact Cheryl Solomon

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

Cooperative members:

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

Alliance for Audited Media Member

Visit Ohio Cooperative Living magazine online at www.ohiocoopliving.com! Read past issues and watch videos about our articles or our recipes. Our site features an expanded Member Interactive area, where you can share your stories, recipes, and photos and find content submitted by other co-op members across the state. 15 10 12 4 40 37

40

MEMBER INTERACTIVE

May flowers: We all know what April showers bring, and co-op members show off their green thumbs this month — as Pioneer Electric Cooperative member Stacey Koons did with this photo of her son, Jackson, admiring some especially large black-eyed Susans.

Gusts, grit, and the power of cooperation

BY CARYN GOLDEN WHITNEY

Appropriately, spring’s swift, early arrival in Ohio this year came on a Friday the 13th.

A fast-moving low-pressure system tore across the state this past March, unleashing widespread damaging winds. The National Weather Service measured sustained winds up to 40 mph, with gusts as high as 85 mph.

Trees, with root systems anchored in ground already waterlogged from previous rain, could not stand up to the sudden blast, and very quickly, power outages began to mount. At the peak of the storm, more than 600,000 homes and businesses were without power in Ohio; 88,000 of those were in areas served by electric cooperatives.

11:52 a.m., March 13:

Trouble begins

In Millersburg, in eastern Ohio, reports of outages started coming in to Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative around noon. “The numbers escalated quickly through the afternoon,” says Robyn Tate, the co-op’s vice president and chief administrative officer, noting that the hardest-hit areas were also the most rural. Large trees came down and numerous poles snapped under their weight.

By midnight, 10 of the co-op’s 19 substations were without power from the transmission provider, and 11,000 of the co-op’s 18,000 members were in the dark.

Holmes-Wayne was not alone. Nearly all of the 24 co-ops in Ohio experienced outages from these high winds; seven were hit hard enough that they sent out a call for help. Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives’ statewide office had already jump-started the process of accessing the damage and coordinating mutual aid.

6:37 p.m., March 13: Peak of the storm

By the time the statewide co-op outage number peaked just after 6 : 30 that evening, it was clear that co-ops were looking at a multi-day restoration effort. More than 11 ,000 of the 28 ,000 members of The Energy Cooperative in Newark lost power. Paulding Putnam, the Paulding-based co-op, reported some 50 poles down across its service territory.

Because so many Ohio co-ops were occupied wiuth their own systems, line crews had to be called in from out of state to help, as well. “It’s a process that’s been in place a long time,” says Chris Napier, director of safety training and loss prevention at the Ohio statewide office, who coordinated the mutual aid effort. “Co-ops are always prepared to assist.”

The scale of the mutual aid was immense Ohio: 37 lineworkers from 11 cooperatives

• Indiana: 34 lineworkers from 14 co-ops

• Kentucky: 9 lineworkers from 2 co-ops

• Virginia/Delaware/ Maryland: 8 lineworkers from 2 co-ops

• 36 bucket trucks

• 9 digger derricks

March 14–18: Dangerous, demanding work

“Restoration after a windstorm of this magnitude is rarely straightforward,” Napier says. “Downed trees and remote locations make it tough for crews to get where they need to go, and they’re never really sure what they’ll find when they do get in there.”

Rugged terrain can compound that challenge. At Holmes-Wayne, for example, crews often had to haul equipment by foot into areas unreachable by trucks. “The work was extremely labor-intensive just to get to some of those remote locations,” Tate says. “Then when they got there, since they couldn’t get a truck into the work zone, that meant they were climbing poles — and even though they make it look easy, if you’ve ever tried that, you know it isn’t easy.”

Casey McVicker, member services manager at GuernseyMuskingum Electric Cooperative, says more than 30 poles had been broken and over a third of the co-ops’s nearly 18,000 members lost power. Mutual aid crews started at the New Concord office for a safety briefing and onboarding, then were partnered with GMEC employees —”birddogs” — to help them navigate the unfamiliar terrain and maximize safety. “It would have taken probably twice as long to restore power if not for the help of our sister cooperatives,” McVicker says.

Small moments, lasting impact

Amid the heavy damage, difficult conditions, and long hours, there were lighter moments — scenes that captured the cooperative difference.

When Holmes-Wayne crews stopped to repair an outdoor light at a member’s home, for example, the Bryant family’s curious 3 -year-old, Frank, watched linemen Cody Spreng and Josh Johnson do their work. They took a few minutes to talk with him, show him what they were doing, and answer everything they could, and the interaction sparked something bigger. “Frank walked away inspired,” his mom shared on social media, touched by the patience and kindness. She said the moment ignited his imagination in a way she couldn’t have on her own (see photo at right).

As the crews battled exhaustion and difficult conditions, cooperative communities responded with overwhelming support. Co-op staff and even some members volunteered time and donated food to keep the crews fed. Lunches were delivered to job sites.

“We always get snacks and drinks dropped off for our linemen, and a full meal is provided every morning and evening for everyone working to get the lights back on,” Tate says.

Safety is non-negotiable

But it’s more than food. The pressure to get power back on for members is real, and crews worked 16hour days, racing daylight and even more wind and weather in the days following the storm.

So those little moments serve to remind line crews just why they do what they do. And all the words of encouragement from members — in pwerson aand online — mean just as much. Nearly all the cooperatives impacted received dozens of “thank you” posts on their Facebook pages from their members, even those still patiently waiting for power to come back on.

In all of that, Napier says line crews’ commitment to safety never wavered. “Safety is non-negotiable, period,” he says. “The goal at the end of every day is to get everyone back home safely.”

March 18: Restoration complete

Five days after the storm, power was restored to the last members who had still been in the dark because of the storm. Napier marked the occasion with a congratulatory message to those from across the state and beyond who had taken part in the effort. You could sense the pride in the work and gratitude for the safety of all those involved.

“Poles have been planted in the ground, wire pulled in the air, and time sacrificed away from family and friends to bring us to this point,” Napier wrote.

“WELL DONE!!”

“Greatlength!Stays inplacewhenbending over.Washesbeautifully withnoshrinkage.Would recommendtoanyone!” –N.Reno,NV

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A tradition of showing up

Blood drives are a point of pride for one co-op member — and an entire community.

BY JILL MOORHEAD

Roger Bender doesn’t think much about the number. From his farm outside Fort Loramie, where he’s a member of Piqua-based Pioneer Electric Cooperative, he’s been showing up to blood drives for more than 50 years. A pint here. Platelets there. Time spent in folding chairs at St. Michael Hall, sleeves rolled up, watching as the same people come through the door.

mark them. Reds, blacks, faded grays, they sit in drawers and closets, each one stamped with a message: “Give blood. Give love.” “Find the hero in you.” “Be the good.” Some mark milestones, others came from small-town drives meant to thank donors and draw in new ones.

Bender keeps his favorites; they’re a regular part of his wardrobe. But he also gives them away: to neighbors who can’t donate anymore, to friends, to anyone who might wear one out into the world and make someone else think twice about passing by the next blood drive.

He doesn’t give blood for the shirts. He does it for what happens inside St. Michael Hall, the recurring home to Fort Loramie’s drives.

Behind the scenes

Hours before go-time on the day of a blood drive, St. Michael’s is already awake. The Fort Loramie Community Service Club (of which Bender is a member) handles the setup. Tables are lined up in neat rows, and volunteers move with quiet efficiency to prepare the space.

National Honor Society members from the local high school arrive early to help, taking care of the heavier lifting. The American Legion Auxiliary prepares food for the donors — hot sandwiches and homemade cookies are available for those who give (a step up from the usual bagged snacks available at blood drives).

Roughly one in eight of the town’s residents (somewhere around 200 people) will pass through the hall over the course of the day. It’s more than just a routine for many in the community; it’s become something deeply personal.

Everyone has a reason

Bender has seen it happen again and again. He recalls the story of a young couple who never miss a drive, often bringing their three children along.

“Her mom had cancer,” the man says. “And that used a lot of blood.”

Bender sees another man at a table across the way — someone who, by his own admission, hates needles. Still, Bender says he comes to every drive. “If my wife could go through what she did for three years of cancer treatment,” the man told him, “I can deal with this.”

Over time, it’s added up to hundreds of donations — gallon upon gallon — and a mountain of T-shirts to

There’s the story of a young man who suffered severe burns and needed transfusions to survive. Before it happened, he had already donated more than 70 times himself. When word spread, the community responded the way it always does, by showing up.

A point of community pride

Years ago, a retired nurse named Irene Boerger helped build the local blood donation program into something lasting. She encouraged people not just to give, but to return, and to bring others with them. Over time, that persistence shaped the culture of the area. At one point, it became one of the highest donor regions in the country on a per capita basis.

It doesn’t matter to any of them that the blood collected doesn’t necessarily stay in Fort Loramie. It goes to supply hospitals across an 18-county area. The need is constant, with the blood being used for cancer patients, trauma victims, and surgeries that can’t wait.

To meet that need, the drives have expanded. What used to be three per year in Fort Loramie is now six. Nearby communities have done the same, creating more opportunities for people to step forward.

Do what you can

For years, Bender donated whole blood, a process that took 10 minutes or less. But after retiring from teaching in 2011, he was encouraged to switch to platelets and plasma, which are especially important for cancer and burn patients. The process takes longer. Blood is drawn, separated, and returned in cycles. Sometimes it keeps him in the chair for more than an hour.

Last year alone, he donated 28 times. It sounds like something worth bragging about, but Bender is more proud of the community effort than he is his own contribution. “I’m just fortunate to be healthy enough,” he says.

There are still small rewards. T-shirts. Sweatshirts. Coffee mugs. Tokens meant to thank donors and maybe catch someone’s attention out in public. For Bender, it’s more about what he leaves behind.

Explorer

Hall of Fame outdoors writer brought the world home to his readers in the Buckeye State.

BY W.H. “CHIP”

GROSS;

PHOTOS COURTESY

OF STEVE POLLICK

Steve Pollick, the former outdoors editor for The (Toledo) Blade, even after decades of international adventures and more awards than he can count, remains one of the most humble, unassuming, approachable, and genuinely friendly people anyone could ever meet. He spent decades narrating his travels for his readers, and, now in his late 70s, still has a regular outdoors/environmental column, “Open Season,” that appears monthly in Ohio Outdoor News Recently, I sat down with Steve to talk about his career and his life in the outdoors, and just listen to some of his fascinating stories.

During the second half of the 20th century, every big-city daily newspaper in Ohio employed a full-time outdoors writer. That person wrote a column several times per week — usually including a feature-length story on Sundays — highlighting the Buckeye State’s fishing, hunting, natural resources, and nature-related activities. Among the very best of those unique scribes was Pollick, who wrote for The Blade from 1982 to 20ll.

Born in Cleveland and raised in Fremont, Pollick displayed early interests in both the outdoors and writing. He soon discovered, through his high school English teachers, that he had an innate ability to break down complex concepts and make them easy for people to understand.

He graduated from the University of Toledo and earned a master’s from Ohio State, then went to work as a general assignment reporter for The Blade.

His editors noticed his wellresearched, accurate stories, and offered him the coveted position of outdoors editor. He jumped at it.

“When I accepted the job, [owner Paul Block Jr.] told me he expected just two simple things of me,” Pollick remembers: “‘I want you to travel the world, and just do The Blade some good.’ It was an outdoor writer’s dream come true.”

Pollick certainly took the assignment to heart. He traveled to some 45 countries during his nearly 30-year career, filing stories from exotic locations around the globe — including two notable trips to China and one to the Arctic in extreme northern Canada.

“The China trips involved me tagging along with members of the Toledo Zoo, who were working with the Chinese government to live-trap pandas in the bamboo forests of China’s Southwest Mountains,” Pollick says. “Some of the captured pandas were transported to China’s Wolong research center, while others came to Toledo for a one-year exhibit.”

The trip to the Barren Grounds of the central Canadian Arctic was for a series of stories on the “caribou” Inuits, indigenous people who mistakenly used to be called Eskimos. “They survived primarily by hunting migratory caribou, and I wanted to tell the story of their primitive, disappearing culture,” Pollick says. “I rode dog sleds pulled by fan-teams, with Elizabeth Alooq, the first Nunavut provincial minister, who spoke almost no English.”

Pollick’s newspaper stories were so enlightening and worldwide in scope that they quickly caught the attention of the prestigious Explorers Club in New York City, and he was made a member in 1987 (joining fellow Ohioans Neil Armstrong and John Glenn). He was granted emeritus status in 2017, six years after retiring from The Blade. “Apparently they thought my writings contributed to the good of the Explorers Club mission of education,” he says, “so I rated the extra recognition.”

Pollick says he dodged death at least eight times during his many years of traveling to remote locations around the globe. “I was charged by large, dangerous wild animals three times: a bull hippo, cow elephant, and female tiger. I nearly froze to death, twice; almost crashed a bush plane I was flying; survived a 105-degree fever for several days; and much closer to home, on Lake Erie, two fishing buddies and I had our boat completely swamped by a rogue wave.”

Of course, things weren’t always so life-or-death. He remembers being invited to eat a meal in a rural Chinese community, where he was seated around a wooden table with a large stew pot sitting in the middle of it. “My host handed me a ladle and motioned for me to dip out some food from the pot,” he says. “When I did so, out came a rooster’s head, complete with neck attached. My host was very pleased, as the head and neck were considered the choice pieces of the meal. Actually, it didn’t taste too bad.”

Pollick says one of the greatest outdoor memories of his career came while covering the 2000 Iditarod, the annual sled dog race stretching 938 miles from Anchorage to Nome, Alaska.

“One night, I had the opportunity to borrow a snowmobile and take a solo ride of several miles up into the mountains,” he says. “The temperature was ‘plenty-below zero,’ but I was dressed for it. I remember it was a clear, windless, star-filled night, with the colorful Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights, hanging over it all.

“I stopped the snowmobile in a mountain pass, and as I sat there in the deep silence of Alaska’s winter wilderness, a wolf pack began howling far away on the ridge to my left. They were soon answered by a second wolf pack howling far away on the ridge to my right. It was one of the most spectacular, serendipitous moments I’ve ever experienced in the out-of-doors — that experience went deep into my soul.”

Steve Pollick was inducted into the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame in 2022

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!

www.ohiocoopliving.com

CATHERINE MURRAY

Microwave meals

When time’s short but appetites are long, these dishes are ready in a flash.

MICROWAVE MEATLOAF (WITH TWO SIDES)

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes |

Servings: 4

1 pound lean ground beef

1 large egg

¼ cup dry breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon onion soup mix (stir before measuring)

1 tablespoon yellow mustard

3 tablespoons thick BBQ sauce, divided

1½ cups water

2/3 cup milk or water

1 teaspoon garlic salt, divided

1½ cups instant mashed potato flakes

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 large crown of broccoli

In a medium bowl, mix together beef, egg, breadcrumbs, soup mix, mustard, and 1 tablespoon of the BBQ sauce. Shape meat mixture into a loaf and place in a lightly greased, microwave-safe casserole dish or loaf pan. Cover dish with a microwave-safe lid or plate and microwave on high 9 to 12 minutes, until the center reaches 160 F. Keep covered and set aside.

Meanwhile, in a microwave-safe mixing bowl, combine water, milk, and a ½ teaspoon of the garlic salt. Stir in potato flakes until just moistened and top with butter. Cover bowl with a microwave-safe plate and microwave 3½ minutes on high. Carefully remove from microwave and fluff potatoes with fork while mixing in the melted butter. Cover and set aside. Place broccoli stem-side down into a microwave-safe mixing bowl with 2 inches of water in the bottom. Microwave on high 6 to 8 minutes, until the thickest part is easily pierced with a fork. With tongs, transfer broccoli to a serving bowl and cut into pieces with a knife and fork. Glaze meatloaf with remaining 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce; cover and microwave on high for 2 minutes. Slice meatloaf. Sprinkle mashed potatoes and broccoli with remaining ½ teaspoon garlic salt; serve hot.

NOTES: Jazz up the vegetables with cheese sauce, gravy, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce. Use a towel or oven mitts — the dishes will be hot!

Per serving: 476 calories, 21 grams fat (9 grams saturated fat), 42 grams total carbohydrates, 140 milligrams cholesterol, 1,038 milligrams sodium, 6 grams fiber, 33 grams protein.

5-MINUTE FRENCH TOAST

Prep: 4 minutes | Cook: 1 minute | Servings: 2

1 large egg

1 tablespoon milk*

¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon maple syrup (or sugar, honey, agave syrup)

2½+ cups cubed bread**

Optional toppings: powdered sugar, fruit, maple syrup

*Any milk you have on hand will do, including sweetened and vanilla-flavored milk alternatives. **Rustic, crusty, and sturdy breads will retain more texture than soft, squishy breads in the microwave.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and sweetener with a fork. Add bread cubes and toss with fork to thoroughly coat. If there’s excess egg mixture at the bottom, add a few more bread cubes until fully soaked up. Split between two microwave-safe mugs or bowls. Microwave 45 seconds, stir, then cook in 15-second increments until bread is no longer shiny. Protect hands with a towel to remove from microwave. Let cool slightly before topping with powdered sugar, fruit, and/or a drizzle of maple syrup (optional).

Per serving (not including toppings): 256 calories, 6 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 39 gram total carbohydrates, 94 milligrams cholesterol, 393 milligrams sodium, 3 grams fiber, 11 grams protein.

OMELET ANYTIME

Prep: 3 minutes | Cook: 2 minutes | Servings: 1

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons water

a dash of salt and pepper

1 to 2 tablespoons mix-ins*

*Omelets are versatile, with countless cheese, meat, vegetable, herb, and seasoning combinations to choose from. Omelets shown have Parmesan pesto, goat cheese and spinach, and cheddar and salsa.

In a small bowl, thoroughly whisk together eggs, water, salt, and pepper. Add mix-ins, whisking once more. Coat a 2-cup microwave-safe mug or bowl with cooking spray (the eggs will puff up to almost 3 times their size). Pour in egg mixture. Lightly cover with a microwave-safe plate or lid (don’t seal; steam should escape) and microwave on high, checking doneness in 30-second increments, until eggs are fully opaque. Use a towel or oven mitt — the dish will be hot! Let cool slightly before eating.

Per serving (not including mix-ins): 143 calories, 9 grams fat (3 grams saturated fat), 1 gram total carbohydrates, 372 milligrams cholesterol, 266 milligrams sodium, 0 grams fiber, 13 grams protein.

SPAGHETTI SQUASH CHICKEN ALFREDO

Prep: 5 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes |

Servings: 2

2-pound spaghetti squash

4 tablespoons water

8 ounces precooked chicken*

7 ounces Alfredo sauce

½ cup shredded mozzarella

1 tablespoon shredded Parmesan minced parsley for garnish (optional)

*Diced grilled chicken shown, or use rotisserie, baked, or canned chicken.

Pierce exterior skin of squash with fork 6 to 10 times. With a sharp knife, cut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and ribbing. Place one half hollow side down in a microwave-safe dish with lid (such as CorningWare) along with 2 tablespoons of water. Cook 8 to 12 minutes, until fork easily pierces all the way through the flesh. Set aside to cool and repeat process with the second squash half. Spread chicken pieces onto a microwave-safe plate and microwave until warmed through but not piping hot. (Time will depend on size of pieces and if chicken is frozen.) Meanwhile, scrape the inside of the spaghetti squash with a fork to create “noodles,” transferring the strings to two microwave-safe bowls. Split the Alfredo sauce and warmed chicken between the bowls; toss with fork to coat, then top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Microwave each bowl until cheese has melted and dish is hot throughout. Garnish with parsley (optional). Makes two meals or four side-dish servings.

NOTE: If you don’t have a microwave-safe dish with lid to fit the spaghetti squash, try placing a microwave-safe plate on top. Otherwise, cook uncovered but double the water and expect it to take longer to cook Per serving: 584 calories, 34 grams fat (16 grams saturated fat), 28 grams total carbohydrates, 154 milligrams cholesterol, 657 milligrams sodium, 4 grams fiber, 42 grams protein.

MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER/CEO

Investing in our future

Each year, one of the most rewarding parts of serving a cooperative is recognizing the young people in our communities who are preparing for what comes next. Our scholarship program is one way GuernseyMuskingum Electric Cooperative invests in that future.

From my perspective as an engineer, I’ve always believed strong communities are built by investing in people. Education opens doors, creates opportunity, and helps develop the kind of thoughtful, hardworking individuals every community depends on. Whether these students pursue careers in the skilled trades, health care, education, agriculture, engineering, or public service, they represent the next generation of problem-solvers, leaders, and innovators.

Supporting our youth is not just something we do; it’s part of who we are as a cooperative. We are locally owned and community-focused, and that means looking beyond today’s needs and helping prepare for tomorrow. When we invest in students, we’re investing in the future of our

communities, our workforce, and the places we all call home.

Our scholarship recipients have demonstrated hard work, commitment, and a strong connection to their communities. These are the same values that guide our cooperative, and it’s encouraging to see them reflected in the next generation.

On the following pages, you’ll find more information about each of our scholarship recipients, including their accomplishments and future plans. I hope you’ll take a moment to read their stories and join me in celebrating their achievements.

We are proud to support these students and excited to see where their paths lead and the impact they will make in the years ahead.

GMEC celebrates scholarship winners

Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative understands the importance of developing the next generation of community leaders. In support of helping our youth achieve their dreams, we offer scholarships to graduating high school seniors.

Children of Members Scholarship

The Children of Members Scholarships are for students with a minimum 3 5 GPA who are chosen following an interview with a panel of community leader judges. Each student’s academic record, community involvement, leadership, achievements, and presence are used to determine the winners.

Faith Saxton, a senior at John Glenn High School, received the first-place scholarship of $1 ,100 . In addition to her superior academic record, Faith is also involved in National Honor Society, volleyball, choir, and track. She is an active member of Cambridge Bible Church and is a local entrepreneur. Faith plans to attend Cedarville University to major in nursing and entrepreneurship. She is the daughter of Dave and Mary Saxton.

Josey Rome, a senior at Buckeye Trail High School, received the second-place scholarship of $1 ,000 . Along with her academic success, Josey is in National Honor Society, plays basketball, and is the vice-president of her senior class. She is also vice-president of her 4 -H club, a member of Christ Our Light Parish, completed the Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Program, and coaches girls’ biddy league. Josey plans to attend Ashland University and major in sports management and business administration. She is the daughter of John and Christy Rome. Josey also received a Touchstone Energy Achievement Scholarship.

Meg Mumford, a senior at Crooksville High School, received the third-place scholarship of $900 She is a vice-president of National Honor Society, secretary of student council, editor of the yearbook, and sits on the student principal advisory committee. She is also on The Community Bank’s Junior Board of Directors and volunteers with The Salvation Army, Perry County Housing Coalition, and Possibilities Invitational. Meg plans to attend Bowling Green State University and major in social studies education. She is the daughter of Travis Mumford and Brook Kussmaul.

Brelynn Barr, a senior at John Glenn High School, received the fourthplace scholarship of $800 . Brelynn is president of National Honor Society, and is involved in volleyball, track, and choir. She is an active member of New Concord United Methodist Church, completed the Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Program, and participates in club volleyball. Brelynn plans to attend Mount Vernon Nazarene University to major in speech-language pathology and audiology. She is the daughter of Laramie and Kristen Barr.

Dawson Spratt, a senior at Cambridge High School, received the fifth-place scholarship of $700 . Dawson is a three-sport varsity letterman in cross country, track, and swimming. He also is in student council and National Honor Society and has earned his Eagle Scout rank. Dawson plans to attend the Ohio State University to major in physics. He is the son of David and Kellie Spratt.

Hailey Arnold, a senior at Meadowbrook High School, received the sixth-place scholarship of $600 . Hailey is in National Honor Society and plays football, softball, and track. She also coaches gymnastics, is in the ski club, and will have earned her associate’s degree in applied science upon graduation from high school. Hailey plans to attend the University of Akron to major in biomedical science. She is the daughter of Jeffrey and Jessica Arnold.

Touchstone Energy Achievement Scholarship

The Touchstone Energy Achievement Scholarship was created to help students who have overcome a personal struggle or obstacle to graduate from high school and attend college.

Two $750 scholarships were awarded this year, to Josie Durben and Josey Rome.

Josie Durben, a senior at Newcomerstown High School, is a member of the National Honor Society and Teen Leadership Corp and plays varsity volleyball. Josie plans to attend Stark State College to major in massage therapy and physical therapy assistant. She is the daughter of Chad and Sascha Durben.

GMEC Scholarship in Honor of Jerry Kackley

Established in 2020 , the GMEC Scholarship in Honor of Jerry Kackley was created by the Kackley family to give back to the Guernsey-Muskingum Electric members that supported him and his family through the years. Jerry was employed at the cooperative for 27 years before retiring in 2019 after a cancer diagnosis. After a courageous, hardfought battle he passed away a few months later.

We are happy to announce that Addysen Sichina and Hannah Slack received a $750 GMEC Scholarship in Honor of Jerry Kackley.

Addysen Sichina, a senior at Meadowbrook High School, is class president and student council treasurer, and is in National Honor Society. She also plays varsity volleyball and softball, is a member of Fellowship of Christian Students, and is involved in the Meadowbrook Teen Leadership program. Addysen is an active member of Southern Hills Local Baptist Church, volunteers at Night to Shine, and works at the local country club. Addysen plans to attend West Virginia University to major in civil engineering. She is the daughter of Robin and Mica Sichina.

Hannah Slack, a senior at Maysville High School, is a member of Health Occupations Students of America, a healthcare pathway ambassador, and a four-year letterman in soccer and archery. She is vice-president of her 4 -H club and an active member of Rolling Plains United Methodist Church. Hannah volunteers at Genesis Hospital, is a camp counselor, and has participated in the Pennsylvania State Police Camp. Hannah plans to attend Capital University to major in nursing. She is the daughter of Van and Melissa Slack.

Cooperative Principle No. 7: Concern for Community

At the heart of every electric cooperative is a commitment that goes beyond keeping the lights on. Cooperative Principle No. 7: Concern for Community reflects a simple but powerful idea that cooperatives exist to serve and strengthen the communities they call home.

At Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative, this principle shows up in meaningful, lasting ways, especially through our support of local students, our focus on community safety, and programs designed to help neighbors in need.

Each year, we invest in the future by offering scholarships to local students. These scholarships are more than financial assistance; they are an investment in the next generation of leaders, workers, and community members. By supporting students as they pursue higher education or technical training, we’re helping build a stronger and thriving community for years to come.

We also recognize that sometimes members need a helping hand. That’s where Operation Helping Others makes a difference. This member-supported program provides assistance to individuals and families facing financial hardship, helping cover essential needs and offering support during difficult times. It’s neighbors helping neighbors, one of the strongest examples of what it means to be part of a cooperative.

Caring for our community also means looking out for one another’s safety. Electricity is an essential part of everyday life, but it must be respected. That’s why we place such a strong emphasis on electric safety education, reaching students, families, and community groups with information that can prevent accidents and save lives.

From teaching children about the dangers of downed power lines to helping families understand how to stay safe around electricity at home and outdoors, these efforts are all rooted in the same goal: keeping our communities safe, informed, and prepared.

Concern for Community isn’t just something we say; it’s something we do. It’s supporting local students as they chase their goals, lending a helping hand when it’s needed most, and sharing knowledge that protects our neighbors.

Because when our community succeeds and stays safe, we all benefit.

Neighbors helping neighbors:

Operation Helping Others in action

One of the most meaningful ways Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative members give back is through Operation Helping Others, or OHO, a program that turns small change into big impact across our local communities.

Funded entirely by members who choose to round up their monthly electric bills, OHO continues to make a difference where it matters most. Each quarter, a volunteer committee made up of representatives from across our service area carefully reviews applications and awards funding to projects and organizations that improve quality of life right here at home.

At the first quarter meeting held in February, the OHO Committee approved funding for three outstanding organizations:

$1,000 to Feed My People to support their Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser, helping provide meals and assistance to individuals and families in need.

$1,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Southeast Ohio for their Home Ownership Program, which helps local families achieve safe, affordable housing.

$2,500 to 4-H Camp Ohio to upgrade the electrical systems in their bunkhouses, improving safety and comfort for the many youth and groups who enjoy the camp each year.

These donations are a direct result of the generosity of GMEC members. What may seem like just a few extra cents each month adds up to meaningful support for organizations that are making a real difference in our communities.

Operation Helping Others is a shining example of the cooperative principle of Concern for Community — members working together to support neighbors, strengthen local programs, and build a better future.

If you’re already participating in OHO, thank you for helping make these contributions possible. If you’re not yet enrolled, consider joining. Just give us a call at 800-521-9879. Rounding up your bill is a simple way to create lasting impact, because when we work together, even small change can make a big impact.

Are smart appliances

right for my home?

Let’s start by defining what “smart” means. Smart appliances — such as refrigerators, washers, ovens, thermostats, and water heaters — connect to the internet. Typically, through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, these appliances can be controlled using your smartphone, tablet, or voiceassistant device. They are designed to optimize energy use and add convenience. Some smart devices can even learn your habits over time.

Are smart appliances right for your home? The answer depends on your preferences and types of appliances you already have. The better question might be: Are smart appliances right for you? Do you like the newest tech and typically keep your phone within arm’s reach? Do you enjoy the convenience of calling out commands to Alexa? Or do you prefer less technology, or something in between?

Many smart appliances allow you to see how much energy each device consumes. That information can be helpful to better understand your energy habits and identify where energy may be going to waste.

Smart thermostats are a popular choice for managing energy use and reducing energy waste. Heating and cooling systems are typically a home’s biggest sources of energy consumption. According to Energy Star, you can save an average of 8% cost savings on heating and cooling with a smart thermostat. Savings depend on your climate, the type of system you have, and how you currently use it.

Most energy savings from a smart thermostat come from automating

temperature adjustments while you are sleeping or away from home. If you are already good at manually adjusting your thermostat, you likely won’t see big savings, but you might prefer the convenience of a programmable device you can control on an app.

Smart thermostats make it much easier to program your heating and cooling schedule. Some have geofencing features that automatically adjust settings based on how far your phone is from home.

Coming in with the second-highest energy user in most homes is the water heater. Smart water heaters offer a variety of benefits, like allowing you to monitor energy use, change settings if you need more hot water, and even check how much hot water is available before you jump in the shower after others have showered. An app may make it possible to set your smart water heater to vacation mode even after you’ve left the house for a trip.

Smart refrigerators also allow you to monitor energy use, which is helpful, but may also have features in the app that notify you when the fridge door is open or direct the appliance to make more ice.

Monitoring energy use and making it easier to control your household devices are benefits of smart appliances. Before upgrading, do your research to understand how the features work and whether they benefit your lifestyle. Smart technology can help lower your energy use. But, in some cases, you’re better off improving your energy habits with the appliances already in your home.

Ray Crock

Double the value: why your water heater choice matters

When it comes to your home’s comfort and energy use, your water heater plays a bigger role than you might think. At Guernsey-Muskingum Electric

Cooperative, members have a unique opportunity to get more value, more reliability, and more long-term savings from their water heaters.

A smarter investment for your home

Purchasing a water heater through GMEC isn’t just about replacing an appliance; it’s about making a smart, long-term investment. Members who choose to purchase a water heater through the cooperative receive valuable benefits, including:

• Free maintenance, except cleaning (parts and labor, during normal business hours)

• A free pressure-relief valve

• A free radio-controlled switch

With high-quality options like Vaughn and Marathon water heaters, offering long-term warranties, members can feel confident they’re getting durable equipment built to last.

At-cost pricing — because you’re a member

One of the biggest advantages of purchasing your water heater through GMEC is something you won’t find just anywhere: We sell our water heaters at cost. That means there’s no retail markup, just fair, transparent pricing designed to benefit you, not generate profit. It’s another way your cooperative puts members first, helping you get high-quality equipment at a price that reflects the true cost.

In addition, once your radio-controlled switch is installed, you’ll receive a $375 energy credit. It’s a combination that delivers immediate savings up front, along with long-term value you can count on.

The RCS advantage

Every water heater purchased through GMEC requires the installation of a radio-controlled

Continued from page 20C

GUERNSEY-MUSKINGUM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE CURRENTLY SPEAKING

switch, and for good reason. The RCS program helps manage electric demand during peak use times by briefly interrupting power to your water heater.

For members, this comes with several key benefits:

• Lower long-term costs by helping reduce the need for future rate increases

• No noticeable disruption — you’ll still have hot water when you need it

• Ongoing free maintenance eligibility, as long as the RCS remains installed and operational By participating, you’re helping the cooperative control wholesale power costs, savings that benefit all members.

Already have a water heater? You can still benefit!

Even if you choose to purchase your water heater elsewhere, you can still take advantage of the RCS program. If your unit meets a few simple requirements (40 gallons or larger, 7 -year warranty or more), GMEC will:

• Install a free RCS

• Provide a $200 energy credit

• Offer free maintenance (parts and labor, excluding cleaning)

Savings that go beyond your home

The combination of a high-quality water heater and the RCS program creates a win-win: improved performance and reliability for your home and lower energy costs for the cooperative and its members.

Since its start in 1974 , the RCS program has helped save thousands of dollars in energy demand costs. Those savings help stabilize rates and ensure GMEC can continue delivering reliable, affordable power to you, the members.

Powering comfort, together

At its core, this program reflects what it means to be part of a cooperative, members working together for the benefit of all. By choosing a GMEC water heater and participating in the RCS program, you’re not only investing in your home, but also supporting a smarter, more efficient energy future for your community.

IT PAYS TO BUY QUALITY TWO WAYS TO SAVE

Purchase your water heater from Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Price includes:

• FREE Maintenance (except cleaning), including parts & labor, during normal business hours

• FREE Pressure Relief Valve

• FREE Radio-Controlled Switch

Vaughn 50-gallon:

• 11-year manufacturer’s warranty

• 3” foam insulation, 4” hand-hole cleanout

• Dimensions: 28” diameter x 52” height (Weight = 230 lbs.)

Wholesale Cost

$1,161.00 Member Energy Credit* $375.00 Net Member Cost, plus taxes $786.00

Marathon 50-gallon:

• Lifetime (same owner) manufacturer’s warranty

• 2.5” foam insulation

• Dimensions: 23 ½” diameter x 67” height (Weight = 100 lbs.)

Wholesale Cost $1,288.10 Member Energy Credit* $375.00 Net Member Cost, plus taxes $913.10

Marathon 85-gallon:

• Lifetime (same owner) manufacturer warranty

• 2.5” foam insulation

• Dimensions: 29” diameter x 71” height (Weight = 135 lbs.)

Wholesale Cost $1,754.50 Member Energy Credit* $375.00 Net Member Cost, plus taxes $1,379.50 OR

Purchase your electric, storage water heater elsewhere with the following requirements:

• 40-gallons or larger

• 7-year warranty or longer

If you’re considering a new water heater or want to learn more about adding an RCS to your existing unit, contact GMEC today at 800 -521 -9879 . It’s a simple step that delivers lasting comfort, value, and savings. *Energy

• 91% or higher Energy Factor

Have a FREE radio-controlled switch installed and receive:

• $200 Energy Credit*

• Free Maintenance (except cleaning), including parts & labor

Kim Zifzal retires

After 24 years of dedicated service, Kim Zifzal retired from the cooperative this April, closing a meaningful chapter in a career defined by commitment and care.

Kim joined the cooperative in October 2001 as a member accounting specialist, a role she faithfully held throughout her entire career. Over the years, she became a trusted and steady presence, supporting both her coworkers and the members we serve.

Her attention to detail, reliability, and quiet dedication made a lasting impact that will be felt well beyond her time here.

We are grateful for Kim’s years of service and the many contributions she made along the way. Please join us in wishing her all the best in this well-earned retirement and the exciting new chapter ahead.

May is National Electric

Safety Month

May is National Electric Safety Month and a great reminder to take a closer look at how we use electricity every day. A few simple precautions can help protect your home, your family, and your community.

Be

aware at home

Check cords and outlets for damage and never overload circuits or power strips. Keep electrical devices away from water, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

Use appliances safely

Follow manufacturer instructions and unplug small appliances when not in use. Replace frayed cords right away and avoid using damaged equipment.

Watch for power lines

Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines. Never touch a downed line; assume it’s energized and call 911 immediately.

Be careful outdoors

Use extension cords rated for outdoor use and keep them away from wet conditions. When using ladders or long tools, always look up and stay clear of power lines.

Teach kids electrical safety

Make sure children know not to play near electrical equipment, outlets, or power lines. Use outlet covers where needed to prevent accidents.

Electricity powers our lives, but it deserves our respect. Taking a few extra moments to practice safety can prevent injuries and keep everyone powered safely all year long.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIP OF THE MONTH

As temperatures start to rise, many homeowners focus on staying cool. Don’t forget about the small gaps around windows and doors. While air sealing is often associated with keeping cold air out during winter, it’s just as important during summer. Tiny cracks and worn weatherstripping allow cool, conditioned air to escape and hot, humid air to seep indoors. This forces your air conditioner to work harder than necessary and increases energy costs. Take a few minutes to check for drafts, replace weatherstripping, and seal leaks. A tighter home keeps you more comfortable and helps manage energy use.

Source: energy.gov

Are your name and account number here?

If so, call the cooperative’s office and receive a FREE home change-out to LED lightbulbs (limit six bulbs). Thanks for reading the local pages of Ohio Cooperative Living magazine.

#57-0340-04-09 Christina A Love

#40-0014-13-08 Jody D Clark

#51-1153-09-00 Matthew McCauley

Service Availability Charge — $52/mo.

First 2,000 kWh/mo. — 13.945¢/kWh Over 2,000 kWh/mo. — 14.145¢/kWh

Seasonal Residential Service rate schedule S-1*

Service Availability Charge — $504/yr. First 800 kWh/yr. — 23.069¢/kWh 800 to 6,000 kWh/yr. — 13.945¢/kWh Over 6,000 kWh/yr. — 14 145¢/kWh (Minimum annual charge — $504/yr. for service between March 1, 2026, and Feb. 28, 2027)

Commercial Service rate schedule C-1*

Service Availability Charge — $36/mo. First 1,500 kWh/mo. — 15.869¢/kWh Over 1,500 kWh/mo. — 14 145¢/kWh

#28-0059-18-01 Bonnie Roberts

#18-1035-14-00 Jinx A Thompson

#12-0798-06-04 Samantha Moore

*Rider T — Kilowatt-Hour Tax applies to all rate schedules and must be added to the rates shown.

First 2,000 kWh/mo. — 0.465¢/kWh Next 13,000 kWh/mo. — 0.419¢/kWh

Over 15,000 kWh/mo. — 0.363¢/kWh

Lighthouse

BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

In the small Lake Erie waterfront town of Fairport Harbor, east of Cleveland, Sheila Consaul is a celebrity of sorts. Known to locals as “The Lighthouse Lady,” she purchased the derelict Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Light at the mouth of the Grand River in 2011 and has been restoring the lighthouse to its former glory — one slow step at a time — ever since.

“The lighthouse had been unoccupied by keepers for some 60 years,” she says. “The lighthouse is a labor of love, but the restoration has taken me much longer than I ever expected. Just in paint alone, I’ve used 150 gallons: 90 gallons of that on the interior and 60 gallons on the exterior.”

Consaul, a communications consultant, has painstakingly turned the lighthouse into her summer dream home in those 15 years since she ponied up $71,010 for it at a U.S. General Services Administration federal auction. She lives and works there from May to October, then returns to her winter home in Virginia for the remainder of the year. The following photos are a peek inside the historic light, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2025.

living

Constructed in Buffalo, New York, in the early 20th century, the shell of the Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Light (measuring 3,000 square feet and weighing 65 tons) was loaded onto the steamer SS Wotan and moved 147 miles west to Fairport Harbor, where it was mounted on its base, constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and finished in place (historical photo circa 1921).

The lighthouse, which sleeps 10 people, has three bedrooms and three bathrooms, with the

Visitors to the lighthouse are invited to sign the guest book located just inside the front door.

While mostly staying true to the lighthouse’s original interior design, Consaul added a decorative compass rose inlay to the original dark-colored, wooden flooring on the thirdfloor landing.

work on the airy main living level, which contains the kitchen, living room, and dining area.

When owner Sheila

is in residence

Festivals food

BY MARGIE WUEBKER

Ohioans love to eat. In fact, on just about any given weekend of the year, you can find a festival somewhere in the state that shows off a given community’s love of — and even pride in — its favorite food.

There are food festivals in the Buckeye State for just about any craving, from apples to zucchini. Depending on the season, you can pig out on pickles, potatoes, pawpaws, or pork rinds; you can gorge on garlic or graze on grapes; and you can savor strawberries and sweet corn at more smalltown celebrations than you can shake a stick at.

We found a comprehensive list at www. ohiofestivals.net, but here are just a few of our favorite food-specific festivals happening in Ohio during the year.

Reynoldsburg Tomato Festival, Aug. 13–15

Although their ancestors originated in South America, the first tomatoes developed for commercial production were produced in Reynoldsburg, hence its claim as the “birthplace of the tomato.” The Columbus suburb has been celebrating that tradition since the 1960s with the Tomato Festival, featuring events such as Tomato Wars and the Tomato Smash, as well as tomato-based foods of all kinds. The festival offers carnival rides, royalty pageants, and car/bike shows, but the unique and often messy competitions — the dodgeball-like food fight of the Tomato Wars and more family-friendly Tomato Smash, where barefoot contestants stand in barrels to see who can stomp the most juice out of the tomatoes inside — are the most memorable. There’s also a pizza challenge and a spaghetti-eating contest with one rule: no utensils allowed. Food stands abound with each required to feature at least one tomato-based offering.

Durbin Bean Bake, Celina, Sept. 7 www.facebook.com/4BeanBake

What began as a reunion for veterans in 1898 has become a Labor Day tradition at its rustic, out-of-the-way setting west of Celina. The event draws young and old alike for old-fashioned games like running and sack races, slipper kicking, horseshoes, wheelbarrow races, and husband/wife calling. There is even a baldheaded competition — for women as well as men. The day begins at 10 a.m. with musical entertainment, a petting zoo, an inflatable bounce house, flag raising, and a memorial service filling the hours while beans with ham and bacon simmer in 10 wood-fired kettles. Volunteers take turns stirring the large pots with longhandled wood paddles throughout the afternoon, until the appointed 4:30 p.m. serving time. Along with the star of the show, the on-site cook shack offers wholehog sausage and chicken sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, chili, noodle and vegetable soups, and assorted pies. Attendees should bring lawn chairs as well as sturdy bowls or pots for the beans.

Ox Roast Fair, Mantua, July 17–19

www.stjosephmantua.com/ox-roast-fair

Folks in northeast Ohio never need to ask, “Where's the beef?” They simply head to the Ox Roast Fair at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Mantua, where volunteers annually prepare some 2,800 pounds of sirloin roast in brick-lined fire pits. After 10 to 15 hours, the meat emerges perfectly tender and flavorful, and ready for purchase on a sandwich, as part of a three-course option, or as an ox sundae — a concoction of mashed potatoes topped with gravy, sliced beef, and sour cream, with a cherry (tomato) on top. There’s also plenty of entertainment — live music, semitruck and tractor pulls, carnival rides, frog jumping and hot dog eating contests, and vendor booths. The festival also features a traditional Ox Run through town, a ceremonial blessing of bikes, and an Ox Land geared for young children.

Poultry Days, Versailles, June 12–14

Versailles will celebrate its 75th annual Poultry Days this year with a brand-new distinction: After serving 40,179 chicken dinners throughout the course of last year’s festival, it’s the “world's largest chicken barbecue.” In fact, more than 1.2 million meals have been doled out since Poultry Days debuted in 1952 as a means of saluting the community's rich history as a leading poultry producer. Other food offerings include hamburgers, hot dogs, french fries, elephant ears, and ice cream, but the chicken is far and away the star of the show. Planners also provide a smorgasbord of activities, musical entertainment on two stages, a classic car show, amusement rides, a petting zoo, and a grand parade. The Poultry Days Ultimate Classic draws Frisbee-style disc-flinging teams from near and far, and fireworks close the festival in colorful and booming fashion.

Strawberry Festival, London, June 25–27

www.londonstrawberryfest.com

Spring is strawberry season, and other than ribs, which seems to be a category all its own, the berries take the shortcake as the most popular festival feature in the state — at least a dozen strawberry festivals take place in May and June. Shandon, near Cincinnati, has the oldest and Troy boasts the largest. Strawberry festival season wraps up the last weekend of June, when the London Strawberry Festival takes over the community’s downtown area. Each vendor must feature at least one strawberry-themed treat, so along with the expected — shortcake, smoothies, ice cream, and donuts — visitors can stumble across more nontraditional strawberry-laced treats like loaded churros, nachos, pizza, and even pickles. In addition to rides and games, each day features a different vehicle show, and there’s also a circus, pageants, arts and crafts, and a festive parade. Live entertainment is also an important part of the schedule, and local talent is showcased in a Strawberry Idol competition.

Live it up. Underground.

You may think you know Kentucky, but you’ll discover surprises at every turn. Explore exhilarating above- and below-ground experiences. Come and play where the future is bright and the adventures are never-ending. Y’all interested? Plan your trip to our new Kentucky home today.

Find Your Go in Cadiz & Lake Barkley

GO EXPLORE. GO CAMP. GO BOAT. GO ANTIQUING.

Adventure has a rhythm here, and it starts in Cadiz. Launch the boat, cast a line, wander wooded trails or tee up a laid-back round of golf. Roam historic downtown in search of one-of-akind antique finds, then settle in near the shoreline in a cabin, a cozy bed-and-breakfast or lakeside glamping accommodations made for easy mornings and lingering sunsets. Keep the momentum going by planning ahead for October’s 50th Trigg County Country Ham Festival, a weekend filled with Kentucky heritage, food, music, crafts and friendly small-town charm.

GoCadiz.com/things-to-do

Caves, Culture and Corvettes

DISCOVER BOWLING GREEN, KENTUCKY

Ready for a spring getaway? Bowling Green sets the stage for unforgettable family adventures. Take a boat tour through the underground waterways of Lost River Cave. Down the road, Chaney’s Dairy Barn serves award-winning farm-fresh ice cream made by the lovable Jersey cows on site. Experience the history of America’s sports car at the National Corvette Museum, then get behind the wheel of a Corvette C8 or high-speed kart at the NCM Motorsports Park. And with Mammoth Cave National Park only 45 minutes away, Bowling Green is the perfect destination to shake off those winter blues.

VisitBGky.com

Lift Your Spirits EXPLORE THE WINE, WHISKEY & ALE TRAIL

Just 20 minutes south of Louisville, explore the Bullitt County Wine, Whiskey & Ale Trail. Discover the James B. Beam American Outpost & Distillery, the Four Roses Bourbon Warehouse & Bottling Experience and Coxs Creek Distilling. The trail also features four award-winning wineries and two craft breweries. Get a free souvenir glass when you complete the trail.

TravelBullitt.org

Two Festivals, One Stay SUMMER GLOW, FALL HERITAGE

In Pendleton County, the best getaways start slow, with coffee on the front porch, cool air and views that make you pause for a moment. You will wake up early on purpose just to watch the morning sun rise across the ridgetops and valleys. Plan your stay around two can’t-miss festival weekends: In July, Balloons & Tunes features events for the whole family, including a balloon glow and a new drone show. When autumn is in the air and leaves are starting to fall, enjoy a Pendleton County tradition, the Kentucky Wool Festival. This family-friendly heritage event is steeped in the history of sheep with weaving and spinning demonstrations, artisans and crafters, music, and food.

PendletonCountyTourism.com

Beer Cheese Bliss Starts Here COME TASTE THE LEGEND

Winchester, Kentucky, turns up the flavor with its famous Beer Cheese Trail ® . Sample bold, tangy spreads, sip local brews and meet the makers who put this Always Original delicacy on the map. It’s a deliciously fun excuse to eat, explore and celebrate Kentucky creativity. Don’t miss the annual Beer Cheese Festival on June 13, 2026 — it’s the tastiest time to visit.

VisitWinchesterKY.com/directory/ winchester-beercheese-trail/

Trail Town

Many of the small towns that dot the Buckeye Trail are shaping a new kind of Ohio experience.

BY JILL MOORHEAD

When hikers on a specific path in Ohio — whether tackling miles on a through-hike or heading out for a shorter day trip — enter town, there’s a chance they’ll spot a simple sign: Buckeye Trail Town.

It’s a signal that they’ve arrived somewhere that’s prepared for them. Hikers can count on a Buckeye Trail Town for the basics, like a place to use the restroom, grab food, maybe rest for a bit — but also people and places that can make the journey memorable: a unique ice cream shop, a local bar, a conversation with someone who knows the trail.

The Trail Town program, launched by the Buckeye Trail Association in 2012, has grown steadily to include communities across the state that can be accessed from the trail. The program is designed to support hikers, but the benefits run both ways. As interest in the Buckeye Trail continues to grow, with thousands of followers tracking and sharing their journeys, these towns are becoming destinations in their own right, drawing visitors who might not have otherwise found their way there. That reliability creates opportunity for the towns themselves. In places like Deersville, hikers know they can stop at the general store for a scoop of Buckeye Crunch ice cream, with proceeds supporting the trail. In Milford, a visit to Roads Rivers and Trails might mean picking up a T-shirt that maps out the Buckeye Trail alongside the many other trails that pass through town — a visual reminder that this small Ohio community sits at the intersection of a much larger network of trails stretching across the country. With every hiker who comes to each of the 25 Buckeye Trail Towns, that means business.

Trail towns are rarely in locations with the money for large-scale tourism campaigns.

Continuedonpage 34

Continued from page 33

But the small, consistent interactions — meals, purchases, conversations — add up over time, bringing new people into communities and giving local businesses a reason to invest in the trail experience. Behind it all is a program that is largely volunteerdriven. The Trail Town initiative is coordinated by volunteers, including Kim Love-Ottobre, the Trail Town coordinator, who works closely with communities as

reach out first, and designation is marked by a public celebration — often a proclamation ceremony that brings together local leaders, residents, and trail supporters. And that may be the most defining feature of the Buckeye Trail Town program: It’s grassroots from its very roots. Along the Buckeye Trail, the success of the network isn’t measured by how many towns are added, but by how many choose to take part, and the trail magic that happens along the way.

CALLING ALL shutterbugs!

2027 CALENDAR PHOTO CONTEST

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

2026

CALENDAR

MAY/JUNE

MAY 16 – Bryan Chamber Spring Fling, Courthouse Square, 138 S. Lynn St., Bryan, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Variety of vendors, farmers market, live music, food, and more. 419636-2247 or www.bryanchamber.org.

MAY 16 – “The Art and Science of Nature,” Piatt Castle Mac-A-Cheek, 10051 Twp. Rd. 47, West Liberty, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Explore the ways nature inspired art, architecture, and poetry here at the castle. Hands-on art and science activities for all ages. www.piattcastle.org.

MAY 17 – Shelby County Coin Club Coin Show, American Legion Post 217, 1265 Fourth Ave., Sidney, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. For more information, call 937-339-5437

the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railroad. Sat. 7 a.m.–noon: pancake and sausage breakfast at the Fire Station. Sat. 8:30 a.m.–noon: Collector Car Cruise-In downtown; open to the public. Sun. noon: BBQ chicken dinner at the Community Church drive-thru, $10; the ladies of the church will also be selling pieces of pie. Sun. 6:30–8:30 p.m., free concert in the park at the former school by the Vintage 3 band from Greenville; bring your lawn chairs. Call 419-7955511 for more info.

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

MAY 9–10, JUN. 13–14 – Findlay Flea Market, Hancock Co. Fgds., 1017 E. Sandusky St., Findlay, Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission. New, used, and vintage items, crafts, and more. Food trucks on-site. Vendors welcome! 419-619-0041 (Christine) or www. findlayfleamarket.com.

MAY 9, 23, JUN. 13, 27 – Market on Main, downtown Kenton, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Outdoor market showcasing vendors, makers, and growers. Shop local, discover unique goods, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. 419-673-4131 or www.facebook.com/marketonmainkenton.

MAY 15–17 – Settlers’ Encampment and Historical Timeline Event 1763–2021, Auglaize Village, 12296 Krouse Rd., Defiance. $5; 12 and under free. Step back in time and see how settlers survived in each era. Includes demonstrations and instructions. Visit with the Robinson Battery of the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, and Teddy Roosevelt. School Day is Friday, May 15 419-990-0107, villageauglaize@gmail.com, or www. auglaizevillage.com.

SOUTHWEST

THROUGH JUN. 24 – Bluegrass Wednesdays, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, Wed. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, and an evening of free entertainment by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass. Reservations recommended. 513-385-9309, vinokletwinery@fuse.net, or www.vinokletwines.com.

MAY 9 – Biergarten, Liberty Home Association, 2361 Hamilton-Cleves Rd. (Rte. 128), Hamilton. Food, music, and German beer. Doors open at 5 p.m. Polka Cola Band plays 6–10 p.m. 513-571-6198, www.facebook.com/ libertyhomeassociation, or www.libertyhome.net.

MAY 19 – Dr. David Cox: “Fort Jefferson,” New Madison Public Library, 142 S. Main St., New Madison, 6–7 p.m. Free. Part of the Historical Speaker Series. Reservations recommended. 937-996-1741, info@ newmadisonpubliclibrary.org, or www.mynmpl.org.

MAY 22 – St. Marys Area Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast, USWA Local Union Hall, 227 E. South St., St. Marys, 8:30–10:30 a.m. $25; includes breakfast. Speakers will be Representative Jim Jordan, Mayor Joe Hurlburt, School Superintendent Bill Ruane, Auglaize County Sheriff Mike Vorhees, and Auglaize County Commissioner David Bambauer. For questions, email info@ stmarysohio.org. Purchase tickets at www.stmarysohio.org/ legislative-breakfast.

MAY 22–23 – Downtown Sidewalk Sales, Sidney, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 937-658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

MAY 23 – Spring Street Fair, downtown Sidney, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Enjoy opening day of the Great Sidney Farmers Market, plus kids’ activity zone, live performances, craft show, and food trucks! 937-658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

MAY 23–OCT. 10 – The Great Sidney Farmers Market, Sidney, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Opening day on May 23 features extended market hours till 1 p.m. 937-658-6945 or www. sidneyalive.org.

MAY 25 – Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, West Liberty, 2 p.m. Parade starts at the old high school and ends at the Town Hall. Ceremony to follow includes high school band, a 21-gun salute, “Taps,” and a benediction provided by a local pastor. www.mywestliberty.com.

MAY 29–31 – Mendon-Union Alumni Weekend, Mendon. Fri. 7 p.m., Mendon Library: historical presentation about

MAY 23 – Family Program: Spring Bird Hike, Wagers’ Devil’s Backbone Memorial Park, 1301 OH-725 W., Camden, 9–11 a.m. Free. Hike and bird ID led by naturalist/nature photographer Tom Hissong. 937-962-5561, pcpdevents@ gmail.com, or www.preblecountyparks.org.

MAY 28–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.

JUN. 10 – “Food and Family History: How Food Tells Your Family Story,” New Madison Public Library, 142 S. Main St., New Madison, 1 p.m. Free. Presentation by Tina McGillvary from OSU Extension. 937-996-1741, info@ newmadisonpubliclibrary.org, or www.mynmpl.org.

JUN. 13 – Biergarten, Liberty Home Association, 2361 Hamilton-Cleves Rd. (Rte. 128), Hamilton. Food, music, and German beer. Doors open at 5 p.m. Vereins Musikanten German Band plays 6–10 p.m. 513-571-6198, www.facebook.com/libertyhomeassociation, or www. libertyhome.net.

JUN. 13–14 – Hueston Woods Arts and Crafts Fair, Doty Pioneer Farm, 6924 Brown Rd., Oxford, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5/person or $10/car; under 12 free. Juried art and crafts show, with a large group of craft and food vendors. Email oxfordmuseumassociation@gmail.com or visit www.oxfordmuseumassociation.com/art-craft-fair-oxfordohio-hueston.

JUN. 3–4 – PCDL Annual Book Sale, Ottawa Elementary, 123 Putnam Parkway, Ottawa, 9 a.m.–7 p.m. No entry fee! Books are 50 cents. Thursday is $4 per bag! Hosted by the Friends of the Putnam County District Library. 419-2314858 or friendspcdl@gmail.com.

JUN. 5–JUL. 25 – Lima Locos Home Games, Simmons Field, 616 Heindel Ave., Lima. $4–$6. See their complete schedule online at www.limalocos.net.

JUN. 12–13 – Pork Rind Heritage Festival, North Main Street, Harrod. Fresh fried pork rinds from Rudolph Foods. Live music, kids’ activities, craft show, fireworks on Friday night, car show Saturday afternoon, WAR Wrestling Saturday evening. www.porkrindfest.com.

JUN. 13–14 – Antique Tractor Show/Pulls, Flea Market, and Fiber Arts Show, Auglaize Village, 12296 Krouse Rd., Defiance. Antique tractors and hit-miss engines on display. Antique tractor pulls Sat. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Small hitch fee for tractor pulls; no charge to show tractor. The Fiber Group will be demonstrating period spinning, weaving, sewing, and quilting on various types of fiber equipment of the various time periods. For more information, contact Lorie Konopka at 567-239-2125 or villageauglaize@gmail.com; call 419-990-0107; or visit www.auglaizevillage.com.

JUN. 13–14 – Family Fun Weekend: “Summer Kick Off,” Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, Sat./Sun. 1–4 p.m. $5/person. Enjoy games, quarter-scale train rides, bounce house, and other familyfriendly activities all afternoon for one price. 419-423-2995, www.facebook.com/nworrp, or www.nworrp.org.

MARKETPLACE

2026 CALENDAR

CENTRAL

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.

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

MAY 22–24 – Coshocton Flint Festival and Spring KnapIn, Coshocton Co. Fgds., 724 S. 7th St., Coshocton, Fri./Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $5 per vehicle. A fun, educational weekend for the whole family. Watch craftsmen make arrowheads, spear points, stone and bone tools. Rocks, gems, minerals, and jewelry makers! Atlatl demos as well. For camping and vendor info, call 814-720 -7512 or 330-473-7014

MAY 30 – Boogie on the Blacktop: Rockhouse, Circleville Eagles, 135 E. Main St., Circleville, 7–11 p.m. $5. Outdoor concert with food vendors and drinks. www.pickaway.com.

JUN. 4–6 – Logan Washboard Arts and Music Festival, downtown Logan. Celebrating a unique piece of American history: the washboard! Washboard factory tours, arts and crafts, food, live music, and more. washboardfestival@gmail. com or www.loganwashboardfestival.com.

JUN. 5–7 – “Ferns of the Appalachian Heartland,” Hocking Hills Region Preserve and Parks, 16684 Kreashbaum Rd., Rockbridge. $325/person. An immersive hands-on workshop focused on introductory fern identification and ecology in our state’s most show-stopping Appalachian landscapes and fern-loving habitats. www. arcofappalachia.org/ferns-home.

MAY 13 – Meet Me at the MAC Happy Hour, McConnell Arts Center, Worthington, 6–8 p.m. $15. Enjoy a wine tasting and a preview of the Worthington Arts Festival artists as you shop at the art market, all while enjoying music from DJ Joseph Moore. Includes snacks from JT’s Pizza & Pub. Tickets available at www.mcconnellarts.org.

MAY 15–16 – Spring in the Country Shop Hop, various businesses in the Amanda, Tarlton, and Stoutsville area. Enjoy a ride in the country to shop for unique treasures, vintage finds, good food, and so much more. Join our scavenger hunt to gather entries into our drawing for “shop hop” bucks. 740-207-1808 or www.countryshophop.com.

MAY 16 – Art on the Canal Art Stroll, Historic Downtown Canal Winchester, noon–6 p.m. Enjoy a vibrant afternoon of free entertainment, including live music, exhibits, and performances, while exploring a variety of exquisite fine art created by talented central Ohio artists. Be sure to stop into our local shops and dining destinations. 740-5033945 or www.destinationcw.org.

MAY 16 – “Get to Know Your Weeds”: A How-To Workshop, Darby Landscape Supply, 8075 Harrisburg Pike, Orient, 10 a.m.–11 a.m. Free. Learn how to identify common “weeds” and discover which ones may actually be helping your garden, plus compost, mulch, herbicides and natural deterrents to weeds. 614-809-8538 or www. darbylandscape.com.

JUN. 5–6 – 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.

JUN. 6–7 – Lancaster Old Car Club Spring Festival Car Show and Swap Meet, Fairfield Co. Fgds., 157 E. Fair Ave., Lancaster. Free admission; $5 parking. Saturday Cruise-In, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday Car Show, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. ($15 registration fee). Join us for classic cars, food trucks, a swap meet, car corral, and crafts along with a live DJ both days. www.lancasteroldcarclub.org.

JUN. 13 – Artist Day in the Cemetery, Chili Crossroads Cemetery, 29463 Co. Rd. 236, Fresno, 12–4 p.m. Join us in the heart of beautiful Ohio Amish country for a day of art, painting, sketching, or photography. Light refreshments served. Free event; donations for cemetery upkeep appreciated. RSVP at catandy7@aol.com.

JUN. 13 –Annual Ohio Suppressor Fest, 3722 Marysville Rd., Delaware, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Factory direct reps on-site from your favorite suppressor brands, hundreds of products on display with swag (purchase tickets to demo the product), all indoor range lanes suppressed fire only, premium raffles, industryrelated seminars, food trucks, and more! https://blackwingsc. com/osf.

WEST VIRGINIA

MAY 16 – John Randolph Spring Arts Kick Off, Fort New Salem, 81 Settlers Lane, Salem, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $8; 10 and under free. Live demonstrations of

blacksmithing, tin smithing, fireplace cooking, outdoor bread baking, and various other crafts. Enjoy Appalachian heritage food, live music, and more. 304-695-2220, director@fortnewsalemfoundation.org, or www. fortnewsalemfoundation.org.

MAY 25 – Memorial Day Celebration, Fort New Salem, 81 Settlers Lane, Salem, 11 a.m.–noon. Free. Join us for a special celebration of this American holiday, originally known as Decoration Day, in which we honor, remember, and respect the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. 304-695-2220, director@fortnewsalemfoundation. org, or www.fortnewsalemfoundation.org.

JUN. 13 – Taste of Parkersburg, Bicentennial Park, 210 3rd St., Parkersburg, 6–11 p.m. $20–$25. Local food, fine wines, craft beers, and live music. 304-865-0522 or www. downtownpkb.com.

THROUGH MAY 24 – Spring Plant Sale, Adena Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, Wed.–Sat. 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 12–5 p.m. Stop by the greenhouses to browse our selection of vegetables and flowers for sale. Speak with our horticulturalist for advice and interesting information about the plants. www.adenamansion.com.

MAY 5, 19, JUN. 2, 16 – Mom Café, Betsey Mills Club, 300 4th St., Marietta, 10–11:30 a.m. Free to new or expectant parents. Open to all moms looking for a sense of community and support. Join us for discussion, self-care, and resources. Snacks and incentives provided. 740-3734981 or www.betseymills.club.

MAY 6, JUN. 3, JUL. 1 – Women in Business Salon, Betsey Mills Club, 300 4th St., Marietta, 6–8 p.m. $25/meet or $75/ full salon. Group trilogy series: meeting of professional businesswomen once a month for three months to share insight and real-world experience. Snacks and drinks available. 740-373-4981 or www.betseymills.club.

MAY 11, 25, JUN. 8, 22 – American Sign Language Class, Betsey Mills Club, 300 4th St., Marietta, 6 p.m. Free to members; $10/class non-members. Taught by deaf instructors and interpreters. Learn ASL and deaf culture. All ages welcome. 740-373-4981 or www.betseymills.club.

MAY 15 – Hollywood Nights: Bob Seger Tribute, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 7:30 p.m. $39– $59 www.majesticchillicothe.net.

NORTHEAST

MAY 1, JUN. 5 – First Fridays on Fourth, 155 N. 4th St., Steubenville, 6–10 p.m. Free. Street music-themed celebration featuring art, crafts, games, food trucks, live entertainment, and activities to stimulate the imagination. www.theharmoniumproject.org/first-Fridays.

MAY 17 – Peggy Coyle: “Crazy for Patsy Cline in the 50s,” Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., Wadsworth, 2–3 p.m. Free. Taking us into the 1950s, Peggy Coyle will join guitarist Jackson Boling in a program of songs made famous by Patsy Cline. Seating is on a first-come, firstserved basis. 419-853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

MAY 22 – Revolutionary War School Day, Fort Laurens Museum, 11067 Fort Laurens Rd. NW, Bolivar, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $7; free for one adult per group. Open to all public, private, and homeschool students between fourth and eighth grade. Interactive stations and demos will cover Revolutionary War history, local Ohio history, archaeology, and more. Registration required. 330-874-2059, fortlaurens@gmail.com, or www.fortlaurensmuseum.org.

MAY 22–23 – Tuscarawas County Home and Garden Show, Tuscarawas Co. Fgds., 259 S. Tuscarawas Ave., Dover, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. https://biastarkeco.com/events.

MAY 15–17 – Tour of the Scioto River Valley (TOSRV), Yoctangee Park, Enderlin Circle, Chillicothe. The TOSRV is a legendary cycling event that has been a rite of passage for riders of all levels for over six decades. https://outdoorpursuits.org/tosrv.

MAY 20 – “Exploring the Fort Ancient Earthworks,” Ohio University Chillicothe, Bennett Hall, 101 University Drive, Chillicothe, 6 p.m. Free. Join Bill Kennedy, archaeologist and site manager at Fort Ancient Earthworks and Nature Preserve, to learn about the amazing earthworks, their structure, and the believed lifestyles of those who built them. www.facebook.com/ friendsofhcnhp.

MAY 22–24 – Feast of the Flowering Moon, Yoctangee Park, Enderlin Circle, Chillicothe, Fri./Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Free. Family-friendly entertainment featuring Native American music and dancing, crafters, Mountain Man Encampment, main stage entertainment, carnival rides, and much more. www. feastofthefloweringmoon.org.

MAY 28 – Chillicothe Paints Home Opener, V.A. Memorial Stadium, 17273 St. Rte. 104, Chillicothe, 7:05 p.m. $5–$7. The Paints will face the Kokomo Creek Chubs. www.chillicothepaints.com.

MAY 30 – Bink Fox Fishing for Vinton County Cancer Group, Racine, 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Catfish tournament open to the public. Enjoy games and raffles. See some big catfish weighed in. Preregistration required; contact Janet Fox at 740-418-8404 or email jfoxmartin@yahoo.com.

JUN. 4 – John E. Hancock: Book Talk and Signing, Ohio University Chillicothe, Stevenson Learning Center, 101 University Drive, Chillicothe, 6–8 p.m. Free and open to the public. The author will discuss his book Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks: Landscape Monuments of the Ancient Ohio Valley. Books available for purchase. Attendance limited; registration required. https://forms.gle/ VJsBMbyWtsYUCoM86

JUN. 4–SEP. 6 – Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama, Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheater, 5968 Marietta Rd., Chillicothe,

MAY 23 – Deersville Community VFD Annual Fireman’s Fair, Historic Deersville, noon–7 p.m. Fish fry, Chinese auction, water battles between Harrison County fire departments, and an old-fashioned parade at 3 p.m. All are welcome. Help support our local fire fighters! Contact Kenny Klamert at 330-340-6087 for more information.

MAY 23–24 – Great Lakes Fiber Show, Wayne Co. Fgds., 199 Vanover St., Wooster. Knitting, spinning, and weaving competitions; fleece show; fiber arts workshops. 100+ vendors. Buy yarn, fiber, fiber arts equipment for spinning, weaving, yarn winding, knitting, crochet, felting and more. www.facebook.com/greatlakesfibershow/events.

MAY 23–24 – Revolutionary War Reenactment, Fort Laurens Museum, 11067 Fort Laurens Rd. NW, Bolivar, Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $10; 12 and under free. Watch a mock skirmish for American Independence by volunteer reenactors from the Brigade of the American Revolution. Demonstrations, food, vendors, kids’ games, and more. 330-874-2059 or www.fortlaurensmuseum.org.

MAY 28 – Fort Steuben Summer Concert Series: Opening Night, Fort Steuben Park, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, Thur. 7–9 p.m. Free. 740-283-1787 or www. oldfortsteuben.com.

MAY 29 – Concert: Josee McGee and Jackson Boling, 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.

MAY 29–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.

Tues.–Sat. 8 p.m. $35–$75. Witness the epic life story of the legendary Shawnee leader as he struggles to defend his sacred homelands in the Ohio country during the late 1700s. www.tecumsehdrama.com.

JUN. 6–7 – Art on the Square, 215 West St., Caldwell, Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Arts and crafts, food, and music. It’s About Time Duo performs Sat. 12–2 p.m. Artists and craftsmen to enter show  contact Trudy Martin at 740-516-3035. For more info: director@visitnoblecountyohio.com or www. visitnoblecountyohio.com.

JUN. 11–13 – Southern Ohio Forest Rally, various locations. Free. The event transforms the rolling hills and forests of Southern Ohio into a high-octane playground for rally enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers. www. southernohioforestrally.com.

JUN. 13 – Kenworth Truck Parade, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 8:30 p.m. Don’t miss the chrome, lights, and big-rig pride as these beauties light up the streets! www.visitchillicotheohio.com.

JUN. 13–14 – America 250 Celebration: “A Revolutionary Family Experience,” Adena Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 12–5 p.m. Free. Experience the sights and sounds of the 18th century through artillery demos, musket and rifle drills, period military music, hands-on exhibits, children’s games, cooking demos, and much more. www. visitchillicotheohio.com/america250-rosscountyohio.

JUN. 12–14 – “Insect Epiphany: How Our Six-Legged Allies Shape Human Culture,” Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. $325/person. Join nationally recognized author and entomologist Barrett Klein for a perspective-shifting look into the insect world. Includes field excursions, nighttime UV light observations, identification, storytelling, and hands-on entomological techniques. Register at www.arcofappalachia.org/ insectepiphany.

com. Susie’s Doll Museum remains open for tours by appointment; contact the Carroll County Park District office at 330-627-8046 or info@ccparkdistrict.org.

JUN. 4–6 – Bolivar Strawberry Festival, downtown Bolivar. Live bands, pageants, strawberry eating contest, carnival rides, kids’ activities, food and drink concessions, vendors, crafters, 5K run, and more. Parade on Saturday. www.bolivarmainstreet.com/strawberry-festival.

JUN. 6 – Jazz Under the Stars: The Jazz Shepherds, Uptown Park, Medina, 7 p.m. Free. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics. In the event of rain, the concert will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 317 E. Liberty St., Medina. to ormaco.org, or call 419-853-6016

JUN. 6, 13 – America 250: Zoar Towpath Trail History Tours, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Walk the scenic Ohio & Erie Towpath Trail between Zoar and Fort Laurens, Ohio’s only Revolutionary War fort, while exploring the rich history of the Ohio & Erie Canal. Learn how the canal shaped commerce, travel, and daily life in the 19th century, and discover the stories that connect these historic landmarks along this peaceful stretch of trail. Tickets at www. historiczoarvillage.com.

JUN. 13 – Secrest Garden Fair, Secrest Arboretum, 2122 Williams Rd., Wooster, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Juried arts and crafts vendors, plant sale, gardening workshops, kids’ crafts, local food trucks, and guided tours of the gardens. Rain or shine! www.friendsofsecrest.com.

JUN. 14 – Eric Benjamin: “Leonard Bernstein, MidCentury Musician,” Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., Wadsworth, 2–3 p.m. Free. Benjamin will share the music and story of Leonard Bernstein, exploring his enormous impact on 20th-century music and culture through his work as a conductor, composer, and educator. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. 419-853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

1 2 3 4 5 6

1 My grandson, Hank Robbins, in our spring flowers. Dixie Robbins, Darke Rural Electric Cooperative member

2 Some beautiful flowers and a busy bee I saw during a walk with my daughter, Ella, at Innis Woods. Kimberly Chave, South Central Power Company member

3 Our dog, Molly Kate, was checking out the dandelions. Susan Marsh, Firelands Electric Cooperative member

4 Wisteria flowers on the arbor we built in 1993 Ricky and Pamela Weippert, Paulding Putnam member

5 Sunflowers planted on the farm, watching the bees. Lincoln Deitrick, Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative member

6 Hallie Faith and I went for a visit to our favorite Aunt Lizzy’s house (Elizabeth Hayslip). We got to see koi fish in her beautiful pond and smell her pretty wildflowers. Holly Combes, Adams Rural Electric Cooperative member

For August, send “Showtime at the fair” by May 15; for September, send “Only in Ohio” by June 15.

Scan the QR code or upload your photos at www.ohiocoopliving.com/memberinteractive. Your photo may be featured in our magazine or on our website.

Call before you dig!

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

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