Today, January 1st, 2025, is the first day in the new life of the Octagon in Newark (Ohio) as it opens to full public access after being besieged by a golf course over the previous century.

This Native American-built geometric structure, which has an adjoined circle with an observation mound, is arguably Ohio’s second most popular and mysterious First Nation earthwork when compared to Serpent Mound in Peebles, Ohio. Fascinating is how the Octagon, believed to be a ceremonial pilgrimage site used hundreds if not thousands of years ago, aligns with the northernmost moonrise which occurs every 18.6 years, and 2024 was that year.

Back in October at the Octagon during a public event on a night when the moon aligned nearly perfect with the Octagon (pictured above), the Ohio History Connection’s Dr. Bradley Lepper told the crowd those Native Americans who built and celebrated the Octagon did so to connect to the “rhythm of the cosmos so they would not feel alone.”

Ohio’s electricity demand may be surging, as a growing number of massive data centers operated by tech giants like Amazon, Facebook, Google, and Microsoft commit to Ohio. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) will hold a public hearing 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 3 to gather input on how AEP will collect the costs of serving these data centers.

Here is a statement from Ohio Consumers’ Counsel Maureen Willis, Agency Director of the Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel:

“While business growth in Ohio is welcome, these data centers, along with cryptocurrency mining operations, consume vast amounts of energy while contributing relatively few local jobs. Residential utility customers, who already pay steep transmission and distribution costs, shouldn’t have to subsidize these investments to benefit corporate giants.”

The five PUCO Commissioners will have to decide on the course to take: to protect Ohio consumers from shouldering these additional costs or to prioritize the interests of global tech giants.

OCC is encouraging AEP consumers to attend the hearing or submit comments online. See details below.

In person:

“First Day at Old First,” hosted by Old First Presbyterian Church
Wednesday, January 1, 12noon-3pm, Old First Presbyterian Church, 1101 Bryden Rd.

Come hear what’s happening with Old First as a community and arts gathering space, a Third Place. Share hopes and ideas with neighbors, artists and community. New Year’s Day brunch from 12noon to 3pm. Donations appreciated. Live music and art!

Hosted by Old First Presbyterian Church