Call it hatcheling, hackeling or hetcheling — you’ll get the point
Before flax could be spun into fine linen thread, early craftspeople relied on hatcheling. Learn about the specialized hatchelsmiths who built these spiked iron tools and how decorated hatchels evolved from essential farm equipment into prized early American folk art.
Former Ohio wildlife pilot shares stories from a sky-high career
For 25 years, pilot John Clem flew missions for the Ohio Division of Wildlife—from tracking serial killers and radio-tagging otters to flying through the Appalachians. Learn how aviation transformed state wildlife management, law enforcement, and conservation in Ohio.
The invisible org chart: Who holds real influence on your farm?
While a formal chart shows who reports to whom, a farm's invisible organizational chart reveals where trust and influence truly reside. Ohio State University Extension specialist David Marrison explains why identifying these informal leaders can improve farm communication and transition planning.
The Miscanthus mistake: Hidden risks of popular privacy grasses
Popular non-native privacy grasses like Miscanthus can quickly escape landscaping and hunting plots to become invasive pests. Learn about the hidden ecological risks of Miscanthus and explore native alternatives like switchgrass and big bluestem for effective screens and wildlife habitat.
Fall can be an effective time to control troublesome weeds
Fall provides a prime window to control perennial and biennial pasture weeds like Canada thistle and poison hemlock. Applying systemic herbicides while weeds are actively growing targets roots before winter, but watch out for residual impacts on spring legume seeding.
Worrying about the weather: Finding beauty in every forecast
Whether it's pouring rain on a wedding day, sweating through a summer heatwave, or just trying to make hay while the sun shines, Ohioans love to complain about the forecast. Columnist Kymberly Foster Seabolt explores our obsession with the weather and finding beauty in the everyday.
Part 2: Grandpa Charlie’s early years growing up in Pittsburgh
In part two of this family history series, explore the early life of Grandpa Charlie Myers as his family traded their 150-acre Ohio farm for a builders' supply shop in 1880s Pittsburgh. Learn about their life in the city, summers on the farm, and early family triumphs and tragedies.
How a child’s gleeful innocence brought grandpa’s sparkle back
After a tragic 1946 loss silenced a family's joy, a toddler's playful bond with her great-grandfather Charlie brought back his sparkle. From shaking straw bales for circus peanuts to farm truck rides, reflect on the special memories that healed a grieving heart.
Why spicebush is one of the best native shrubs for wildlife
Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) is a native eastern shrub valued for its aromatic leaves, spring flowers, and lipid-rich fall berries. Discover how spicebush supports swallowtail butterflies, silk moths, and songbirds, while also providing a tasty wild spice and tea for forage enthusiasts.
Growing older: Why I am embracing early bedtimes and sore joints
From hurting your back sleeping wrong to choosing early bedtimes over late nights, getting older happens fast. Kymberly Foster Seabolt reflects on self-care, body aches, and why she is completely fine with quiet mornings, feeding squirrels, and attending her 40th high school reunion.
