Members Matter

Timbuk Farms

November 2025

As businesses continue to evolve in response to changing energy needs, we're proud to spotlight one of our member businesses that's making the most of our electric and propane services: Timbuk Farms.

Nestled in the rolling hills of Central Ohio, Timbuk Farms is one of the region's oldest and largest Christmas tree farms. Since planting its first crop in 1952, the farm has grown to span 300 acres, bringing holiday cheer and deep-rooted history to Licking County.

Timbuk Farms is more than just a destination for the perfect Christmas tree. The farm is actively involved in research and development, particularly in cultivating evergreen species that are well-suited to Ohio's climate. One of its most notable contributions is the development of the Canaan fir, now a favorite among Christmas tree buyers across the state. Beyond the holidays, Timbuk Farms hosts seasonal events, including the Tulip Festival, Lavender Fest and Fall Fest, welcoming visitors year-round to enjoy the beauty of the farm.

In 2004, after 53 successful years under the Schmidt family, ownership transitioned to Jim and LaVonda Gibson of Granville. With strong agricultural backgrounds and deep horticultural expertise, the Gibsons have carried forward the farm's legacy while infusing it with fresh energy and a commitment to quality. Today, Timbuk Farms operates as both a wholesale and retail greenhouse business, employing over 50 full-time staff who help keep the farm thriving.

In November, our Marketing and Member Services team visited Timbuk Farms to meet with the Gibsons and David Keener, the Tree Farm Manager. We toured the grounds, learned more about their operations, and saw firsthand how their partnership with The Energy Cooperative supports their growth and sustainability.

Q: What does being a cooperative member mean to you?
A: We have been members of The Energy Cooperative since we moved here 20 years ago. They have always been able to supply our needs. There was a time when we added many more services, and they were always able to get them done efficiently.

Q: What is your relationship with the cooperative?
A: The cooperative has always been a hometown supporter of us. We purchase electricity for our greenhouse operation, and at times our usage is fairly significant. We need a consistent and reliable supply to maintain the quality of our plants.

Q: How has your experience been with the cooperative?
A: We've always had a good experience with the service and employees of The Energy Cooperative.

Please provide any additional details about your business that you’d like to share.
We are a wholesale and retail greenhouse operation, as well as a Christmas tree farm. The farm has been operating in Licking County since the mid-50s. My wife, LaVonda, and I purchased the farm over 20 years ago. We both had experience in agriculture, both growing up in it in Indiana. We are fortunate to be here operating our farm and greenhouse. We are lucky to have many dedicated employees who have worked here for many years. We employ over 50 people full-time at our farm. Without them, running the operation would be difficult.

Timbuk Farms remains a place where tradition meets innovation, and where community and cooperation help keep the spirit of the season alive throughout the year.

Past Member Highlights

Newark Station

October 2025

As energy choices continue to shape the future of business, we are proud to spotlight one of our member businesses that is making the most of our natural gas service.

Newark Station, located at 325 West Main Street in the heart of Newark, within Licking County, represents a transformative redevelopment of a historic warehouse site into a dynamic mixed-use destination to live, work and play. With thoughtfully designed residential lofts, engaging recreational spaces, and versatile hospitality/event venues, Newark Station is fostering a vibrant community atmosphere while incorporating our natural gas service into everything they do.

In September 2025, we interviewed Developer and Owner, Todd Alexander, and his Director of Operations, Emily Evans. This business spotlight highlights the relationship between The Energy Cooperative and Newark Station and its growing impact on the local landscape.

Q: What does being a cooperative member mean to you?
A: It means the opportunity to work with people who are a part of your community and have an experience that reflects that in a real way.

Q: What is your relationship with the cooperative?
A: We were fortunate to have the choice of using The Energy Cooperative as our natural gas supplier for this project.

Q: How has your experience been with the cooperative?
A: I could not be happier with our choice to use The Energy Cooperative. Every encounter that I have had with the cooperative has been incredible. The people have been kind, helpful and cooperative. Imagine that! I cannot truly explain how each interaction has been other than it is the way you would hope that customer service is—real people who care.

Please provide any additional details about your business that you’d like to share.
THE Yard, which is open now, is a seasonal outdoor venue offering beach volleyball leagues, cornhole, backyard games and casual food/beverages. THE Yard has a covered pavilion with a large Jumbotron, and we are proud to be the home of the Licking County Alumni Association's designation as their Buckeye Bar! Also open is Earthworks Cafe & Lounge, an expansive restaurant, coffee house and event space. We also offer 18 loft apartments, called The Lofts, that occupy the western and southern perimeters of the former warehouse. These offer immense natural light and meticulously designed industrial details. The Lofts include studios, one bed/one bath, one bed/one and a half bath, and two beds/two baths.

Newark Station aspires to offer active arts, hospitality and a recreational community. No matter what your event needs are, from small to large, we will work with you to make it happen. Visit www.newark-station.com to learn more about who we are and what to expect in future work.

Members Matter

October 2025: Newark Station