Jackson County REMC — August 2020 Indiana Connection

Enhancing your membership with Indiana Connection.

Jackson County REMC’s

Furballs of Fame pages 19–23

WHITING’S MASCOT HALL OF FAME CELEBRATES SIDELINE ENTERTAINERS

AUGUST 2020

from the editor

Truly embracing MY FIVE SENSES

Does your everyday life get in the way of your “best life?” I know I’m usually taking care of multiple demands, deadlines, appointments, and other responsibilities — you know, that day-to-day stuff — and not focusing on what’s really important. So, to help me realign my priorities, I’ve come up with a personal mission, based on our five senses, to help me reclaim “me.”

SEEING: Seeing involves observing and studying, and also having vision. I must stay focused on the things that are truly important, and contribute my time and talent to causes to which I could make a difference.

HEARING: Listen to what others are saying — and what they’re not saying.

There is more to communication than words. We can all “hear” by observing.

No matter what means of “listening” I use, I need be open to what others are communicating.

SMELLING: Stop and smell the roses. It’s not only OK to slow down; slowing down is necessary to enjoy life’s journey. I need to take the time to acknowledge milestones, successes and especially the happy times.

TOUCHING: Make an effort to touch others’ lives every day. By making a positive impact on others, I can make my little corner of the world a little nicer for all concerned.

SPEAKING: Talk is cheap … unless you walk the talk. My words have the power to inspire others — and motivate myself. What we say matters. Don’t say something unless you mean it.

I want to learn new things and then share my experiences with others. That’s what using my five senses is all about. And it’s my way to leave a legacy.

EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@indianaec.org

On the menu: December issue: Homemade food for holiday

gift-giving, deadline Oct. 2. January 2021 issue: Recipes featuring oatmeal, deadline Oct. 2. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Giveaway: Enter to win four tickets to the Mascot Hall of Fame. Visit

indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests. Entry deadline for giveaway: Aug. 31.

Three ways to contact us: To send us recipes, photos, event listings, letters

and entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website indianaconnection.org; email info@indianaconnection.org; or send to Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606.

VOLUME 70 • NUMBER 2 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by Indiana Electric Cooperatives Indiana Connection is for and about members of Indiana’s locally-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives. It helps consumers use electricity safely and efficiently; understand energy issues; connect with their co-op; and celebrate life in Indiana. Over 280,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership.

CONTACT US: 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600 Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606 317-487-2220 info@indianaconnection.org IndianaConnection.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS: Walter Hunter President Randy Kleaving Vice President Steve McMichael Secretary/Treasurer John Gasstrom CEO EDITORIAL STAFF: Emily Schilling Editor Richard George Biever Senior Editor Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist Ellie Schuler Senior Creative Services Specialist Taylor Maranion Creative Services Specialist Stacey Holton Creative Services Manager Mandy Barth Communication Manager ADVERTISING: American MainStreet Publications Cheryl Solomon, local ad representative; 512-441-5200; amp.coop Crosshair Media 502-216-8537; crosshairmedia.net Paid advertisements are not endorsements by any electric cooperative or this publication.

UNSOLICITED MATERIAL: Indiana Connection does not use unsolicited freelance manuscripts or photographs and assumes no responsibility for the safe‑keeping or return of unsolicited material.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $12 for individuals not subscribing through participating REMCs/RECs. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: If you receive Indiana Connection through your electric co-op membership, report address changes to your local co-op.

POSTAGE: Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, Ind., and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to: Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606.

Include key number.

No portion of Indiana Connection may be reproduced without permission of the editor.

AUGUST 2020

3

contents

AUGUST

12

19

county

cover story

03 FROM THE EDITOR

14 I NSIGHTS

05 CO-OP NEWS Energy news and information from your electric cooperative.

16 INDIANA EATS

10 ENERGY Electric vehicles silently charging into town.

12 COUNTY OF THE MONTH Spotlighting Marshall County.

26

Barbecue and brews at Lizton’s Rusted Silo.

17 FOOD The Vinegar Vault: A suite of sour recipes.

19 COVER STORY Furballs of Fame: Whiting’s Mascot Hall of Fame celebrates sideline entertainers.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Indiana Connection

29

pets

calendar

24 OUTDOORS Home restoration: What to do with a displaced nest.

27 RECALLS

25 SAFETY

29 CALENDAR Find out what’s happening around the state. (Not in all

Drones pose electrical safety issues.

28 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS

26 PETS

editions)

Making your pet photos bark and purr. (Not in all editions)

30 PROFILE

On the cover Blue, the lovable fuzzy-coated, warm-hearted and hammy mascot of the Indianapolis Colts, basks in the falling confetti and glory of being inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame in Whiting, Indiana. Blue joined Boomer, the mascot of the Indiana Pacers, and the mascots of the Baltimore Orioles and Montreal Canadiens in the 2020 class of inductees.

PHOTO BY THE MASCOT HALL OF FAME

4

AUGUST 2020

co-op news

ADDRESS:

Enhancing your membership with Indiana Connection

274 E. Base Road P.O. Box K Brownstown, IN 47220-0311

Welcome to the

the other articles include safety

first issue of

and energy efficiency tips, do-

Jackson County

it-yourself articles, a statewide

CONTACT US:

REMC’s Indiana

community calendar, articles that

Connection

will highlight places across Indiana

magazine. We are

to visit, and much more. Most

excited to partner

importantly, there is a food section

PHONE NUMBERS Local calls: 812-358-4458 Toll-Free: 800-288-4458

EMAIL info@jacksonremc.com

WEBSITE www.jacksonremc.com

with our statewide association,

that will provide a variety of recipes

Indiana Electric Cooperatives, to

throughout the year.

offer this informative monthly magazine to our members.

Here at Jackson County REMC, we strive to exceed your expectations.

OFFICE HOURS:

Jackson County REMC’s Indiana

Switching to this new monthly

7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday

Connection is more than just a

magazine is a way we hope to meet

newsletter. As the name implies,

the everchanging informational

it is a magazine which will cover

needs of our members.

BILL PAYMENT: Online: www.jacksonremc.com By phone: 1-888-999-8816

REPORT OUTAGES OR EMERGENCIES: 812-358-4458 (local) 1-800-288-4458 (toll-free) day or night

your local Jackson County REMC news, plus other interesting articles from across the state.

We are excited to be able to enhance your membership by providing the bonus information we hope you will enjoy reading each month. Some examples of

I hope you enjoy this change and find Jackson County REMC’s Indiana Connection magazine a valuable part of your membership.

MARK MCKINNEY President/CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: President John Trinkle, District 3 Vice President Walter Hunter, District 2 Secretary-Treasurer Jerry Kelley, District 5 John Hackman, District 1 Paul Elliott, District 4 Mark Trisler, District 6 Curtis Wischmeier, District 7 Dave Hall, District 8 John Miller, District 9

THE WATT HIGHLIGHTS IS NOW IN

Features • Recipes Event Listings • DIY • Pets Gardening • Safety Tips Info from Jackson County REMC

and more!

AUGUST 2020

5

co-op news

Serving our community Every year we participate in Indiana Electric Cooperatives’ Community Day. This year we completed our project earlier than normal due to the need in one of our local communities.

We took eight employees to the Washington County, Indiana, Fairgrounds to run conduit and install outdoor lighting in their newly built cattle barn. The project was approved to be completed early because the barn needed to be completed for this year’s fair.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 the fair was canceled.

We look forward to our Community Day every year and are proud of the areas we serve. We enjoy spending this day helping improve the quality of life in our community.

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AUGUST 2020

Perry Myers, Kyle Williams, Devan Jerrell and Luke McCory

Left: Jackson County REMC employees, including Kaylee Bennett, Luck McCory, Jarren Brown, Kyle Williams, Devan Jerrell, Derik Nierman, Perry Myers and Nicole Ault, served our local community at the Washington County, Indiana, Fairgrounds.

Luke McCory

co-op news

Devan Jerrell

UTILITY POLES AREN’T BULLETIN BOARDS Think before you post that sign! Staples, nails, and tacks used to hang signs and fliers create dangerous obstacles for electric lineworkers. Their jobs are dangerous enough … help us keep them safe.

AUGUST 2020

7

co-op news

Smart grid fiber-optic broadband project update Even through the pandemic, our construction crews were able to safely work on both mainline construction and drops to the home. By following CDC guidelines, we also are doing what we can to complete home installations so members can get connected.

One thing this pandemic has demonstrated is that the digital divide is real, and a true high-speed broadband connection is necessary for schoolwork, working from home, telehealth and much more.

The following is an update on our smart grid fiber-optic broadband project:

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AUGUST 2020

• Currently, we have 1,263 miles of fiber-optic cable installed.

announcement was first made at our annual meeting in July 2017.

• 40% of our members now have access to our fiber-optic broadband service. In the next few weeks, we are planning to open additional areas so an additional 12% of our members will have access.

We started this project from scratch and have moved as fast as we can to properly manage the project.

What started out as a five-year project is projected to be complete in four years. Many have said you cannot build a network that fast, but we have and things are going well.

• 3,641 fiber-optic broadband accounts are active, with over 1,000 in the works.

The number one question we get is, “When are you going to open my area?” We know many of you have been anxiously waiting since the

From your local member-owned cooperative, thank you for your patience. Follow us on Facebook or look on our website at www.jacksonremc.com for updates.

energy

PART #2

Sound of Movement:

Electric vehicles silently charging into town

In an (almost) noiseless charge into your town, electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer just a dream.

They have arrived! The technology for electric vehicles has developed significantly over the last decade – particularly in the last several years – to the point that they are comparable to gas-powered vehicles.

Several reasons to consider an EV include: EVs are terrific lowmaintenance options for commuters. For EVs, gasoline is not needed to power a motor, which means less wear and tear. There’s also no need for an oil change at 3,000 or 5,000 miles – or ever! Fewer brake pad changes are needed with regenerative braking options available in some vehicles. EVs

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AUGUST 2020

can run longer with less money out of your pocket for maintenance.

Battery ranges are improving – and more public chargers are on the way. Technology in EVs is vastly improving.

CNBC reported in May 2019 that many second generation models routinely have batteries with a 200mile range, and the Tesla Model S has up to a 370-mile range.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that there are now more than 20,000 electric vehicle chargers across the U.S. Companies such as EVgo and Electrify America are committed to installing more nationwide.

Trucks – and more – soon will arrive. In the

last few years, electric truck maker Rivian received financial backing from Ford and Amazon. The Verge reported that Rivian is planning to debut its R1T pickup and R1S SUV in 2021 after the pandemic delayed the launch. More automobile manufacturers also have plans to develop different types of EVs. Charging your car with electricity costs less than gas – and you’re buying local! According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s eGallon calculator, electric vehicles cost about half the price of gasoline vehicles to refuel. Also, when you recharge your vehicle with electricity at home, you are paying for energy provided by your local electric

cooperative – which helps keep your dollars in your community!

As electric vehicles become more prevalent, there is a lot to learn.

Fortunately, your local co-op is here to help.

Your local electric cooperative can help answer your questions and provide other advice that can help you determine if an electric vehicle would be a good choice for you.

by

Steve Hite

Energy Advisor Hendricks Power Cooperative

PHO TO BY RI CHARD G . BI EVER

county feature

Marshall County The first American settlers in Marshall County arrived a year before the county’s formation in 1836. They came from primarily New England Puritan descent.

Thus, Plymouth — after Plymouth, Massachusetts — was the name selected for the county seat.

But two locations just south of Plymouth form notable chapters of the county’s history.

On the south side of a chain of natural lakes, remnants of the last ice age, is a monument to Chief Menominee and his band of Potawatomi Indians. The monument commemorates the starting point of the largest forced relocation of Native Americans from within the state of Indiana just two years after Marshall County formed.

Though the Potawatomi had ceded their lands to the federal government under a series of treaties beginning in 1818, Chief Menominee and his band at Twin Lakes (which is Cook and Myers lakes) refused to leave. After a final August 1838 deadline passed, an armed Indiana militia was authorized to escort the group from the Twin Lakes area and Indiana.

Beginning Sept. 4, 1838, some 859 members of the Potawatomi nation were marched to reservation lands in what is now eastern Kansas. By the end of the 660-mile journey on Nov. 4, 1838, more than 40 people

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AUGUST 2020

The “R. H. Ledbetter” rests anchored at Culver Academies on Lake Maxinkuckee. The flagship of the Culver Summer Naval School, the 65-foot, threemasted ship is the largest fully rigged square-rigged vessel on fresh water in the world and is listed in the Tall Ships America registry. It has 15 sails and requires 21 students to sail it.

died, most of them children. The forced relocation became known as the “Trail of Death.”

A little farther to the south is Lake Maxinkuckee, the second largest natural lake within Indiana. The lake’s northern shoreline is home to the Culver Academies.

Culver Academies is a college preparatory boarding school composed of three entities: Culver Military Academy for boys, Culver Girls Academy, and the Culver Summer Schools and Camps.

Culver Military Academy was founded in 1894 by Henry Harrison Culver. The Girls Academy opened in 1971.

Many political and business leaders graduated from a Culver Academies school.

The 1,800-acre Culver campus is also home to the Black Horse Troop: the largest remaining mounted cavalry unit in the United States. The Troop has ridden in 13 Presidential Inaugural Parades starting with President Woodrow Wilson’s in 1913 through President George W. Bush’s in 2001. The school’s three-masted ship, docked on the school’s lakefront, is sailed as part of training as well.

Both the campus, with its oldschool red brick buildings and tall

y t n u o C acts F FOUNDED: 1836 NAMED FOR: James Marshall, Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court who died in 1835 POPULATION: 46,248 (2018 estimate) COUNTY SEAT: Plymouth

ship, and the adjoining lakefront town of Culver, radiate a kind of New England coastal vibe.

Coincidentally appropriate for a county whose seat is named after one of the most famous New England “rocks” in American history, the lake’s name, Maxinkuckee, is derived from the Potawatomi word Mog-sin-ke-ki, which means “big stone country.”

Marketplace Our Marketplace offers maximum exposure for your business or organization at a minimal cost.

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WE LIVE IT — YOU’LL LOVE IT Visit Switzerland County, Indiana Great Outdoors, Small Town Feel History, Shopping, Cuisine Award-Winning Local Wines Campgrounds and Boat Launches switzcotourism.com AUGUST 2020

13

insights

LETTER TO THE

editor

Cardinal distraction The following letter was addressed to our longtime outdoors columnist, Jack Spaulding.

Dear Mr. Spaulding, I read your May article in Indiana Connection with great interest. I have been having the same experience as the one you cite in your last paragraph, except that it is a female cardinal who keeps making the attacks. She started about the time the coronavirus restrictions began and I have to admit she has been a welcome distraction. I was even inspired to write a poem about it. I notice you refer lightly to Poe’s raven in your title and first paragraph, which I also did in my poem.

I discovered by Googling that this behavior is also a characteristic of

HALLOWEEN CONTEST DEADLINE DRAWING NEAR

robins. There are plenty of robins around here, but none of them has ever

How do you get into the “spirit”

attacked my windows. In fact, this female cardinal is the only one to do so

of the Halloween season? You

in the 10 years I have lived in this house. If she conforms to the same rules

have until Aug. 17 to let us

as the male cardinal at your old country house, I guess I have a couple

know and possibly be featured

more months of it to look forward to.

in Indiana Connection’s October

Thanks for your many interesting nature articles in Indiana Connection.

issue. Five random readers will

I find it interesting that this cardinal is a female since these attacks are supposed to be a characteristic of male cardinals. Occasionally she is accompanied by a male, but he usually does nothing but feed her a seed.

Once I saw him make a couple perfunctory attacks, but nothing since.

Kristine J. Anderson, Tipmont REMC member, Tippecanoe County

Looking for kids who are making a difference Indiana’s electric cooperatives, along with Indiana Connection, are accepting applications for the Youth Power and Hope Awards. This awards program honors fifth through eighth graders who are leaders in their communities.

Five winners will receive $500 and be featured in an upcoming issue of Indiana Connection. Interested students must submit an application, examples of how they have been involved in their local communities, and a reference letter from a trusted adult by Friday, Oct. 2. Visit indianaconnection.org/?p=230 for an application and to learn about past award recipients. Contact us at info@IndianaConnection.org or 317-487-2220 if you have any questions.

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AUGUST 2020

also be “treated” to a $50 prize.

Tell us about your favorite DIY Halloween costumes and how you made them. What are your decorating tips and recipes for family favorite treats? Do you have trick-or-treat memories you’d be willing to share?

We’d love to hear from you. There are three ways to contact us: our website (www.indianaconnection. org); through email (info@ indianaconnection.org); or mail (Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240).

What’s the difference between cleaning, disinfecting and sanitizing?

When it comes to cleaning, not all jobs are created equal. When you’ve got a big mess in the kitchen –– do you clean, disinfect or sanitize? These terms are often used interchangeably, but believe it or not, each are different.

Cleaning dirt or food from a surface, for example, doesn’t necessarily kill germs and bacteria that can cause us to become sick. That’s why it’s important to know the difference between disinfecting and sanitizing. The CDC offers the following guidance: Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces or objects. Disinfecting works by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces or objects. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection. Hospitals, for example, disinfect areas that have come into contact with bodily fluids, and parents typically disinfect areas where a baby’s diaper is changed.

Sanitizing lowers the number of germs on surfaces or objects to a safe level, as judged by public health standards or requirements. This process works by either cleaning or disinfecting surfaces or objects to lower the risk of spreading infection. Most people sanitize kitchen surfaces that come into contact with food.

Pay close attention to hazard warnings and directions on product labels.

Cleaning products and disinfectants often call for the use of gloves or eye protection. For example, gloves should always be worn to protect your hands when working with bleach solutions.

Visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus for more information on how to protect yourself and your family.

New cook stoves mean cleaner air

This simple vented cooking stove is bringing cleaner indoor air and better health to this San Jacinto, Guatemala, woman and her family. During its 2019 mission trip to San Jacinto, Project Indiana made an agreement with the village and its electric utility that every home the Hoosiers wired for electricity would have a vented cooking stove installed. Though the stoves still burn the area’s abundant wood, a ventilation pipe carries the smoke outside, ensuring clearer air in the kitchen and living quarters of the small huts. Studies have shown that vented stoves will reduce the frequency of respiratory infections in children. Now that a few San Jacinto families are beginning to install these life-changing stoves, those at Project Indiana are hoping others will follow suit. To learn more about Project Indiana and how you can support developing global communities, visit ProjectIndiana.org.

Indiana eats

Barbecue and brews OPEN PIT SECRET TO RUSTED SILO’S SMOKY MEATS Finding your favorite

Disney Company in Paris

Collard

tender-to-the-bone

and Orlando. A native

greens,

barbecue ribs may be is

of Florida, Ecker is not

zucchini and

as easy as heading to the

only a master of upscale

tomatoes, cole

rustically decorated shack

cuisine, he’s perfected

slaw, potato

by the railroad tracks in

old-fashioned Southern

salad and ranch

Lizton, Indiana. Rusted

barbecue as well.

beans round out

heading to college through

the “sides” offerings.

the Rusted Silo Fund.

Silo Southern BBQ and Brew House, a converted package liquor store located off I74, boasts a rotating smoker filled with hickory and cherry wood that transforms meats like ribs, brisket, chicken, pork and sausage into mouthwatering barbecue masterpieces.

Although the open pit

Save room for dessert

center stage at Rusted

too. The peach cobbler,

Silo, don’t overlook the

banana pudding, and

side dishes at this rustic

bourbon pecan pie all

farm-to-table restaurant.

get rave reviews. And,

The mac-n-beer cheese

consider ordering from the

puts a unique spin on

massive selection of craft

this classic dish with

beers to cool down from

three cheeses, a splash

the summer’s heat.

of beer and a sprinkling

Rusted Silo’s owner and

of Goldfish crackers. The

pitmaster, Rob Ecker,

stone-ground yellow corn

worked over 25 years

grits get a sharp cheddar

as a chef for The Walt

cheese flavor boost.

RUSTED SILO SOUTHERN BBQ AND BREW HOUSE 16

AUGUST 2020

Since the restaurant

smoked meats take the

ensures its employees are fully compensated for their work, patrons’ tips are earmarked for philanthropic causes through the fund. So, not only can you get your fix of tasty barbecue and brew when visit Rusted Silo, you

Ecker is a strong

can support a local eatery

community advocate and

and help others, too.

he supports those in need as well as local students

411 N. State St. Lizton, IN 46149-9226 317-994-6145 rustedsilobrewhouse.com

NORMAL HOURS: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday

Vault

The Vinegar

food

A SUITE OF SOUR RECIPES

AUGUST 2020

17

food MEXICAN PICKLED CARROTS Suetta Tingler, Corydon, Indiana 2 lbs. large carrots, scraped and sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds 1 T. canola oil 5 cloves garlic, peeled and diced 1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar 8 black peppercorns 1 t. salt 10 whole bay leaves 1 ½ cups water 6 oz. pickled jalapenos Heat oil in a large saucepan. Saute the garlic until a light golden color. Add carrots and saute for 2-3 minutes. Carefully add vinegar, peppercorns, salt and bay leaves; bring to a simmer for 5 minutes. Add water and

BARBECUE SAUCE FOR GRILLING CHICKEN

jalapenos to carrots; simmer for 10 minutes.

Darlene Baty, Springport, Indiana

Allow to completely cool before transferring carrot mixture and liquid into a covered container. Refrigerate for 24 hours. Store the carrot mixture in the liquid. Do not eat bay leaves. Remove before serving with a slotted spoon.

Cook’s note: These are great for adding color and summer crunch to meals or can be served as an appetizer with a bite of zing.

2 cups water 1 cup apple cider vinegar 1 ½ t. Worcestershire sauce 1 T. sugar ½ t. black pepper 1 cup melted butter 1 ½ t. garlic (optional) Mix all ingredients together in a saucepan and warm before using. Keep warm on the end of the grill while applying to chicken. Be sure chicken is warm on the grill before you baste the first time. Baste the chicken every time you turn it over.

WILTED LETTUCE Shirley A. Todd, Columbus, Indiana Chopped lettuce 5 strips bacon ½ cup sugar ½ t. salt ½ cup vinegar Small white onion, very thinly sliced, or sliced green onions (optional)

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AUGUST 2020

Chop lettuce and set aside. Brown bacon; drain on paper towel. Crumble bacon and set aside. Remove skillet from heat. To the skillet (containing bacon fat), add sugar, salt and vinegar. Return skillet to heat and stir mixture until it is boiling rapidly. Immediately pour over chopped lettuce. Stir and toss. Add crumbled bacon. Serve at once. (If desired, top with onion before pouring dressing over lettuce.)

Furballs

of fame

WHITING’S MASCOT HALL OF FAME CELEBRATES SIDELINE ENTERTAINERS

By Richard G. Biever

“You can never have enough confetti!” said Reggy Funfurhuggin, the purple party dude and official spokescharacter of the National Mascot Hall of Fame in Whiting. And with that, fanfare blew and confetti flew as the Hall welcomed the class of 2020 — its four newest furry, fleece and foam-faced members.

Located on the shore of Lake Michigan, the Mascot Hall of Fame is the world’s only interactive shrine dedicated to the lovable zany characters of professional and collegiate sports. These anthropomorphic critters and blobs, nut- and baseball-headed humanoids, and colorful creative amalgams not only entertain fans with their sideline shenanigans, but they also bring warmfuzzy feelings to folks in quieter places not always in the glare of stadium lights.

What makes these previously unsung costumed characters so special that they now have their own Cooperstown and Canton? The answer can be found in places like hospitals, schools and nursing homes where they’re often at their best.

“To me, it’s real simple,” said Al Spajer, the Hall of Fame’s director of community engagement.

“It’s the attention that they pay, generally and specifically, to people.

“They’re entertainers,” he said. “They’re wonderfully conditioned athletes. They can just CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 Boomer, the blue panther mascot of the Indiana Pacers NBA team, proudly shows off his Mascot Hall of Fame ring he received with his induction in June.

PHO TO PRO VI DED BY THE I NDI ANA PACERS

AUGUST 2020

19

Two Indiana mascots inducted into Hall of Fame BOOMER Boomer, the Pacers Panther, has become one of the most popular mascots in all of sports.

His amazing cat-like athletic abilities and comedic antics have won over fans and drawn laughs from even the opponents and referees.

P H OTO CO URTESY OF TH E IN D IA N A PACERS PHO TO CO URTESY O F THE I NDI ANAPO LI S CO LTS

Boomer became the Indiana Pacers mascot in the fall of 1991 and the current performer has been Boomer since 1997. He performs at every Pacers home game and makes more than 300 community appearances each year. His school convocations across Indiana focus on varying topics such as anti-bullying, health and fitness promotion, anti-drug messages, and proper studying techniques.

“We’ve always known Boomer’s one of the best mascots,” said Jamie Russell, Pacers associate of game operations. “Since it’s the fans voting on this, it really makes it extra special to know how much they love and appreciate Boomer.”

BLUE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

do all sorts of physical activity. But it’s the way they treat their fans. It’s just incomparable. They are able to capture hearts and minds and imaginations.”

This year’s Mascot Hall of Fame class, the second since the facility opened its doors the day after Christmas in 2018, included its first Hoosiers. The mascots from both of Indiana’s major-league professional franchises made the grade: Blue, the hammy swivel-hipped horse of the Indianapolis Colts, and Boomer, the acrobatic panther of the Indiana Pacers.

Inducted alongside Blue and Boomer were the Oriole Bird, of the Baltimore Orioles baseball team, and Youppi!,

Blue is the official mascot of the Indianapolis Colts.

He’s now in his 14th season providing gameday entertainment, skits, and sideline antics for Colts fans.

the first international mascot who represents the Montreal

Blue travels the state making P H OTO C OU R TE SY O F THE IN D IA N A P OLI S CO LTS over 300 appearances a year.

Blue performs more than 100 school shows each year, visiting more than 55,000 students across the state.

together was just fantastic. They’re both such great

In 2018, Blue introduced a new show, “Choose Love.” The show is geared toward middle school and high school students where Blue takes off his mask, encourages students to stop hiding behind their own masks, embrace themselves and treat others with love and respect.

20

AUGUST 2020

Canadiens of hockey. Youppi! originally represented the Montreal Expos baseball team which relocated in 2005.

“We’ve always known Boomer’s one of the best mascots,” said Jamie Russell, Pacers associate of game operations. “And Boomer and Blue getting recognized ambassadors for our city, our state, and our franchises.”

“Blue and Boomer are worthy additions, but that’s not something that gets manufactured,” Spajer emphasized.

“You got to win the vote.”

To be eligible for the Mascot Hall of Fame, the character must have existed for a minimum of 10 years. It must also impact both its sport and community, inspire its fans, and consistently give memorable and groundbreaking performances. This year’s inductees emerged from an

original slate of 19 nominees selected

The museum worked with Calumet

and vetted from the pantheon of

College of St. Joseph in Whiting and

performing characters last October. To

Trine University in Angola to develop

earn induction, they faced two rounds

lesson plans and

of public online voting. Almost 127,000

exhibits based on

votes were cast from 41,000 ZIP

S.T.E.A.M.

codes and 57 countries to narrow the

(science,

number to 10 and then to four.

technology,

Because of the COVID-19 restrictions, the Mascot Hall of Fame has been closed to the public since mid-March.

The planned live June induction celebration was held online. Spajer said the Hall hopes to reopen later this year, depending, of course, on the pandemic recovery.

engineering, arts, math) educational principles. The museum’s goal is to educate, spark creativity, promote fun and engage in the community — while

On the outside, the Mascot Hall of

honoring the mascots and their trade.

Fame Interactive Children’s Museum

The mascots’ mascot — Reggy Funfurhuggin, lower left — and a crew of team mascots are permanent fixtures greeting visitors at the Mascot Hall of Fame.

Every inch of the 25,000-square-foot

PHO TO BY RI CHARD G . BI EVER

looks like a giant funhouse: Reggy —

building pays homage to the creatures

the mascot’s mascot, with his giant

that, for a lot of fans, are the faces of

purplish visage, googly eyes and

the professional and college sports

out things like how much force is

inflatable dancing tubes of golden

teams they follow. Exhibits for the

needed to jump off a mini tramp

locks ­— looks down Whiting’s main

“Mascot University” include:

and dunk a basketball from the

street. But, as its full name implies, it is also a storehouse for learning.

• Fureshman Orientation, an introductory film hosted by Reggy,

“This is a place where there’s a lot

the mascot of the Mascot Hall of

of overt fun, but a ton of subliminal

Fame (and about the only talking

education,” noted Spajer. “Everywhere

mascot around), that tells the story

you go, there is a master plan as to

of mascots.

what the facility is trying to do. There’s

• Department of Phuzzical

geography. There’s nutrition. There’s

Education, an interactive play area

exercise. There’s acting. There’s

that includes the chance to virtually

building. There’s mathematics.”

shoot a T-shirt cannon.

P HO TO P ROV ID E D B Y T H E M A S C OT H A LL OF FA ME

• Science of Silliness which points

3-point line — as Boomer does; just how hot does it gets under those furry faces; or just what is that fur even actually made of.

• Mascot Studies that includes a map locating where the mascots come from and a chance to learn about mascots through history.

• The Department of Furry Arts where visitors can design their own mascot, perform as a mascot, and Build-A-Mascot with a Build-ABear brand workshop.

Enter to win four tickets!

Learn more on page 3.

That a world-class national shrine to mascot silliness should be located in the small hard-working city of Whiting (population about 5,000) in Indiana’s industrial northwest corner in the shadow of Chicago is not as improbable as it may sound.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 AUGUST 2020

21

IF YOU GO...

The Mascot Hall of Fame is located just across the railroad tracks from Whiting’s Lakefront Park on the Lake

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

To know Whiting, the folks there say, is to appreciate a sense of whimsy.

After all, Whiting’s biggest event each year (when there’s no pandemic) is the Pierogi Fest. It attracts over

Michigan shoreline. The

300,000 people over the

HoF has been closed during

course of a July weekend.

the pandemic. Check its

All for a Polish dumpling.

website for latest details on

“It is a parody on parades

reopening dates and times.

1851 Front St., Whiting, IN 46394

and festivals. We poke fun at our Eastern European heritage,” Mayor Joseph Stahura, now in his fifth term, told the Indianapolis

219-354-8814

Star when the mascot shrine opened.

MascotHallofFame.com

instead of motorcycles. Old ladies

“We have a lawnmower brigade

Al Spajer, who goes by “Grandpa Mascot” at the Hall, stands with some of the giant inflated balloons featuring the likeness of inductees hanging from the rafters.

PHO TO BY RI CHARD G . BI EVER

dress up in house coats, twirling

David Raymond, the original Phillie

plungers and rolling pins. Mascots just

Phanatic mascot, channeled the

REGULAR HOURS:

fit smack in the middle of that theme.”

tongue-in-cheek outrage to a new

Tues-Wed, Fri-Sat: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

And a little farther up the western Lake

Thurs: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m Sun: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The Mascot HOF is closed on Mondays and the following days: New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

Michigan shoreline from Whiting is Milwaukee where the whole notion of a Mascot Hall of Fame had its birth.

It was July of 2003. During the usual “Sausage Race” at a Milwaukee Brewers baseball game, in which four people dressed as a variety of 7-foottall sausages dash around the field, a Pittsburgh Pirate leaned over the dugout railing with a bat and playfully

ADMISSION: Adults and children: $12

clubbed the Italian sausage named Guido on the back of the head as they ran by. The whack was well above

Children under 2: Free

the head of the young woman inside

Teachers and seniors (over 65): $10

the costume and didn’t hurt her, but it

Active military: Free Free parking!

was hard enough to make her lose her

AUGUST 2020

Raymond founded the Mascot Hall of Fame, a virtual shrine that lived online.

From 2005-2008, 16 mascots were inducted. But he always dreamed of putting it into brick and mortar.

When Stahura became mayor in 2004, he brought a vision for expanding Whiting’s tourism beyond pierogis and its popular summertime beach.

Over 9.5 million people live within just about an hour’s drive of Whiting. He was looking for a year-round attraction for a plot of city land just across the railroad tracks from Whiting’s lakeshore park. In 2013, he came upon Raymond’s online Hall of Fame.

balance. Guido fell, taking down the

Feasibility studies and an economic

racing Hot Dog beside him, as well.

analysis later, a $14 million tax-

The incident became a rallying cry for “mascot rights.”

22

awareness for their craft. In 2005,

increment financing package was approved by the Whiting

Redevelopment Commission. A non-

Spajer, who now makes his home as

gone over and over protocols and

profit entity to operate as the mascot

a Kankakee Valley REMC consumer

practices. “Whatever group comes

museum was created. Construction

in Valparaiso, said folks who know him

through here, not only do I want them

began in 2016. The official grand

best say he’s finally found his calling.

to FEEL safe, I want them to BE safe.”

Kidding aside, he noted, “The HR

But even cleaning up after mascots

person is always looking for the

can provide a chuckle. “When we

organization to improve, to be

took the pause for coronavirus, we

innovative, and to do what’s right.

did a very extensive deep cleaning,”

When I look at mascots, I’m like, ‘Yep,

he said. “As soon as we started, we

they check all those boxes. And they

got a leaf blower in here, and we

certainly know how to treat people.’

were marshaling confetti. There was

opening and ceremonial ribbon cutting was held April 6, 2019.

Spajer had just retired from a 40-year career directing human resources at a steel company in the region when he was asked to be the museum’s

a heckuva lot more than we thought

executive director in the early stages

“For seven years, I’ve had the

of its planning. His community and

privilege to follow those guys and girls

charity work, most notably with the

around and see what they do,” Spajer

Lake Area United Way, made him

added. “I’m behind them, so I’m

well known among area civic leaders.

looking at the kids. I see their eyes, or

He stepped back into the role as the

I’m looking at the family … and how

Mascot fans eagerly await the

executive director this spring. But

special they feel. I’m not looking at

museum’s reopening; everyone could

Spajer prefers to be called “Grandpa

the mascot; I’m looking at the person

sure use some mascoting right about

Mascot.”

who’s looking at the mascot. That’s

now. And when that happens, let the

cool.”

fun return — and that confetti fly.

the softer, sillier side of sports might

And from his background in the

seem a like departure for a native

steel industry, Spajer is also super

Richard G. Biever is senior editor of Indiana Connection.

Chicago Southsider who spent his

safety minded. So when it comes to

life working in the steel industry and

reopening the hands-on museum after

watching and playing hockey. But

COVID-19, he said museum staff has

Heading up a museum dedicated to

we’d ever find. It was everywhere.

In the rafters. In all the nooks and crannies. Confetti is a staple of the mascot trade.”

Mascots gather with David Raymond, left, the original Phillie Phanatic who started the Mascot Hall of Fame, and Whiting Mayor Joe Stahura, at a 2019 fundraiser.

PHO TO PRO VI DED BY THE M ASCO T HALL O F FAM E

Visit indianaconnection.org for a list of the 24 members of the Mascot Hall of Fame.

AUGUST 2020

23

outdoors

Home

Restoration W HAT TO DO WITH A D ISPLA C ED N EST

A slightly forlorn tone tinged my wife’s voice when she said, “There is something in the garage I want to show you.”

As I walked into the garage, I saw, lying on one of my work tables, a wide light maple branch holding a small woven bird’s nest containing three tiny ivory colored eggs. The nest was larger than a hummingbird’s and about 2 ½ inches across. The eggs were a little larger than the size of a cooked Northern bean.

“I was trimming the low branches in the side yard where we mow, and I didn’t see the nest until it floated to the ground,” she said.

The broad light tree branch covered with leaves made for a natural parachute, and the nest came to rest on the ground with no damage to it or to the eggs inside.

“What are we going to do?” she asked.

24

AUGUST 2020

I said, “We’re going to put it back.”

I cut a few lengths of stout twine, and we headed back to the side yard where Chris remembered lopping off the limb.

Pulling the severed limb down, Chris held it while I tightly lashed the limb containing the nest and eggs to the top of it. Then, we eased it back into position. The reconfiguring put the nest on about the same level and only about two feet back from its original location.

The next day, I carefully walked into the side yard, and I saw two very small, sparrow-like birds leaving the canopy from the vicinity of the relocated nest. It seems they have accepted the relocation of the nest.

Backing off and giving them their space, I have curtailed my curiosity to give the birds a chance to get used to their newly relocated housing.

Wildlife is much more tolerant of human intervention than many think. If you find a young bird out of its nest, simply pick it up and put it back. The parents will pay no attention to the human scent on its young and will continue to care for it. ‘til next time,

Jack

JACK SPAULDING is a syndicated state outdoors writer and a member of RushShelby Energy.

Readers can email him directly at jackspaulding@ hughes.net.

Jack’s first book, “The Best of Spaulding Outdoors,” a compilation of his favorite articles over 30 years is now available as a Kindle download or as a 250-page paperback from Amazon.com.

safety

Drones

POSE ELECTRICAL SAFETY ISSUES The use of drones has increased rapidly in the past several years. Coming in various sizes ranging from hummingbird to bald eagle, these remote-controlled aircraft are being used in a vast number of ways by government, industries, commercial enterprises and hobbyists.

Electric utilities have come to rely on drones to help inspect power lines, including during storm restoration work when it might be difficult to access certain areas. While drones have not yet filled the skies, as many predict they one day will, Indiana’s electric cooperatives remind both hobbyists and commercial users to be aware of dangers when operating the little aerial devices near power

with electricity, drones still present

number. If you still are unable to

safety concerns their pilots need to

contact the utility, call 911 and

consider.”

ask for assistance. Depending

Some things drone operators, both commercial and recreational, should keep in mind include:

equipment. Power lines can interfere with the radio signals to your drone causing it to veer off course or crash. This can pose danger to any people below or damage your drone or the power lines.

• Should your drone get caught in power lines or crash into a utility pole or substation, never attempt to retrieve it yourself.

Attempting to free the drone by

electrocuted. Call your electric

Cooperatives. “While drones are not tethered to you with a string like a kite that can fall across overhead power lines and put you in direct contact

equipment.

substations and other electrical

“Some of the same things we

Gasstrom, CEO of Indiana Electric

or damage to the electrical

away from power lines, electrical

entering a substation is not only

carry over to drones, too,” said John

it could cause a power outage

• Keep drones at least 100-150 feet

lines and electrical equipment. learned about flying kites as kids

on where your drone has landed,

criminal trespassing, you can be cooperative for assistance.

• If you are in an unfamiliar area or don’t know the name of the utility, most poles and all substations are marked with the utility’s name and

CONSIDERING PURCHASING A DRONE AND BECOMING A RECREATIONAL PILOT? Here are some quick tips and facts from the Federal Aviation Administration: • Fly only for recreational purposes.

• Keep your unmanned aircraft within your visual line-of-sight or within the visual line-of-sight of an observer who is co-located and in direct communication with you.

• Do not fly above 400 feet above the ground.

• Never fly near airports.

• Do not fly in controlled airspace without an FAA authorization.

For full details of becoming a drone pilot, visit faa.gov/uas.

may have an emergency phone AUGUST 2020

25

pets

bark and purr MAKING YOUR PET PHOTOS

Nothing garners attention

on social media these days like cute critter photos.

The photos you make and share of your dog or cat can be just as memorable as the photos you see in magazines or on Instagram.

But rarely do they just “happen.” Here are some tips to keep in mind to make your “snap shots” of Fido and Fluffy bark and purr like the planned professional shots we see.

Use natural or available light

sleep on your head. So,

at it. Don’t pause to

when shooting photos of

examine what you’ve shot,

If possible, use natural light.

them, don’t act as if they

or you’ll miss the next for

suddenly have “dog germs!”

sure. Try different views

or the mange.

and compositions. Worry

Natural light, especially in the morning or late afternoon, is soft light that can fill their eyes and define their furry head against their body. If you cannot go outside, try shooting images in the light coming through the glass of a storm door or window.

Focus on the eyes

Shoot them like you like them

The eyes are the most

If you’re like most indoor

important thing in any type of portrait photography. As they say, “The eyes are the window of the soul.”

That includes those of pets.

Keep those eyes crystal clear and razor sharp.

And while you’re focusing on your pet’s eyes, try to get it to focus its attention on something that turns its eyes slightly your way.

Focus, then snap your fingers or hold out a toy, then shoot the image before it moves its body.

26

AUGUST 2020

pet owners, you probably constantly snuggle with them watching TV. You let them lick your face or

Get in close, just as you would when shooting photos of children. Get down on their eye level. Sit on the floor or lay on your belly if you have to.

Keep on shooting Keep your cell phone handy because sometimes the first shot is the only shot you’ll get in capturing a fleeting moment of frisky furry joy. But, after that first shot, if the pet’s still cooperative, keep working

about the results later. The number of digital photos you can shoot is limited only by the few seconds you take later on to delete shots you don’t like.

So, if your pet is in a pose you love, check the light, the focus, the framing, move in close and keep shooting until you feel you have captured the decisive moment … or until your pet gets bored and starts grooming itself or sticks its nose into your lens wondering what the heck you’re doing.

product recalls

Path light kits recalled for shock hazard

This recall involves Hampton Bay, Patriot Lighting and Paradise light kits sold with Sterno Home LED power supplies. The Sterno Home LED power supply is defective; it has a plug blade that can remain in the AC outlet when the LED power supply is pulled from the outlet, posing a risk of electric shock to the user.

The light kits were sold at Home Depot and other hardware stores nationwide and online from March 2017 through May 2020 for between $50 and $100.

Call 888-867-6095; or go online at www.sternohome.com/recalls or www.sternohome.com and click on RECALL NOTICE in the top left corner or for more information.

As a service to our readers and to promote electrical safety, here are some recent recall notices provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Visit www.cpsc.gov/en/recalls for full details of these recalls and for notices of many more.

AUGUST 2020

27

Hoosier Energy news

GRANT FUNDING helps small businesses during pandemic Partnership with CoBank program doubles matching grants Just days before closing the One Southern Indiana office for the COVID-19 pandemic, President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser had two challenges facing the economic development and Chamber of Commerce organization — how to not only sustain, but also help the

Stacy Tunnell, Betty Lenfert, Julie Young and Stefanie Griffith of Strandz Salon and Threadz Boutique in New Albany have received funds from the One Southern Indiana Cares program that Hoosier Energy recently contributed to.

that One Southern Indiana had

agencies receiving grants were

created the small business relief fund

selected because of being economic

and had received 145 applications

development and community-

Board and team members quickly

for $421,000 in funding. So, the

based organizations with strong

created the One Southern Indiana

committee submitted a request to

reputations in Hoosier Energy’s

Cares program and raised enough

CoBank to match Hoosier Energy’s

service area.

funding in its first of three initiatives

$2,500 grant, with preference

to grant $419,000 in loans to 44

being made to Clark County REMC

small businesses in Floyd and Clark

members if possible.

1,068 business members that would be scared and hurting financially.

counties. One of those donors was Hoosier Energy, partnering with CoBank’s Sharing Success to give $5,000 to the COVID-19 Small

Dant Chesser is grateful for Hoosier Energy and all the businesses, organizations and individuals that

This was one of five Hoosier Energy

have contributed to their three

grants, three which were matched by

different initiatives.

CoBank.

In total, One Southern Indiana has

Business Emergency Forgivable Loan

Being able to partner with CoBank

given or loaned $1.157 million to 123

Program.

meant that the Hoosier Energy

small businesses. “We’ve persevered,

grant had a broader impact for

and luckily, we’ve had a very

small businesses, organizations

generous community.”

The Hoosier Energy Corporate Contributions Committee learned

28

AUGUST 2020

and cooperative members. The

calendar

AUG. SEPT.

Due to the ever-changing coronavirus situation, please note that the events below may not occur at their originally scheduled times. Be sure to reach out to the event contacts below to ensure that the programs you are interested in are still taking place.

NORTHEAST

NORTHWEST

1516 29 Sept.

3-6

YELLOWSTONE TRAIL FEST, Hamlet (Starke), Starke County Fairgrounds. Special guests: Marty McFly and Doc Brown. Lookalike contest, magic, repurposed metal sculpture contest, Dr. Bones, kids’ water activities, baby contest, parade, vendors, music. Free. 547-8060500. YellowStoneTrailFest.com INDIANA BACON FESTIVAL, Delphi (Carroll), downtown square. Live music, local foods, craft beer and wine, Backyard BBQ cook-off, family fun zone and bacon eating and hog calling. Admission charge. 3-11 p.m.

765-564-6757. indianabaconfestival.com ROCK ‘N’ RAIL MUSIC & STREET FESTIVAL, Griffith (Lake), downtown on Broad Street. Live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and children’s activity zone. Free. 219-924-7500. griffith.in.gov

15

Sept.

1012

GAS BOOM DAYS, Redkey (Jay), downtown. Antiques, vendors, live bands, petting zoo, cake walk, cornhole tournament, games, parade, shops and more. Free.

260-729-7040. VisitRedkey.com/ gas-boom-days GRABILL COUNTRY FAIR, Grabill (Allen), downtown.

Handmade crafts, food vendors, monster truck rides, nightly entertainment. Saturday morning parade, children’s games and contests. Free. 260-627-5227. grabillcountryfair.com

CENTRAL

16

WABASH VALLEY COIN AND CURRENCY SHOW, Terre Haute (Vigo), Wabash Valley Fairgrounds. Buy, sell and trade coins and currency. Free.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. 812-533-0783. membam17@gmail.com

2829

SULPHUR SPRINGS COMMUNITY DAYS AND MUD BOG, Sulphur Springs (Henry), downtown. Car show, vendors, musical entertainment, bingo.

Mud Bog Saturday night with $5 admission charge. Trucks and ATVs eligible. Rules to enter on Facebook page. 765-524-4669. fb.com/ sulphurcommunitydays

SOUTHWEST

2223 Sept.

12

CAVE WEEKEND, Mitchell (Lawrence), Spring Mill State Park. Explore caves and learn about the history and ideas tied to them. Unless otherwise noted, programs are at the Lakeview Activity Center. https://www.in.gov/ dnr/parklake/2968.htm ARCHAEOLOGY DAY, Jasper (Dubois), Dubois County Museum.

Activities related to Archaeology Month in Indiana. Admission charge. 812482-7733. https://duboiscountymuseum.org/

This calendar is published as a service to readers and the communities electric cooperatives serve.

Indiana Connection publishes events free of charge as space allows, giving preference to free community festival and events in and around areas served by subscribing REMCs/RECs. While Indiana Connection strives for accuracy, please note that events, dates and time may change without notice. Indiana Connection advises using contact phone numbers or internet sites to check times and dates of events before making plans.

SOUTHEAST

22

MADISON RIBBERFEST BBQ & BLUES, Madison (Jefferson), Riverfront. This scaleddown festival includes BBQ competitions, music and more.

Admission charge. 800-559-2956. madisonribberfest.com

Sept.

LANESVILLE HERITAGE WEEKEND, Lanesville (Harrison), Heritage Park. Queen/Princess pageant. fiddlers’ log-sawing and horseshoe pitchin’ contests.

Antique farm equipment with demonstrations, steam engines, hit ‘n’ miss engines, sawmill and crafts demonstrations, tractor pull. Free. 812-952-2027. lanesvilleheritageweekend.com

1013

To add events to Calendar, please use the “Submit and Event” form under the “Talk to Us” or “Calendar” buttons at indianaconnection.org; or mail your info to: Calendar, Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240. Please submit info two months before the date of the event.

AUGUST 2020

29

career profile

Ensuring power

keeps flowing Top 3

responsibilities in a day: •

Gather materials. It’s important we have all the supplies we need when we leave the warehouse for the day.

•

Run the digger truck. This is the truck that digs the holes for the utility poles and helps set them upright.

•

Learn. It’s important for me to observe everything going on around me and to ask good questions.

Why did you choose to accept a job at an electric cooperative?

I grew up in this area and knew it was a great place to work. It’s a great family-like culture; everyone is here to help and that makes it such a nice work environment.

What’s a typical day like?

The most common day includes changing out poles and installing new electric services. However, it seems like every day is different, which I enjoy.

Have you had to master new skills to be successful in your position?

Everything I’ve done in this position is all new to me but I’m eager to learn. Probably the most important things I’ve had to learn about are the cooperative’s electric

30

AUGUST 2020

Phil Cooper Groundsman Jackson County REMC distribution system, how to read the mapping, and how to run the digger truck. It’s also essential to ask good questions.

Do you see opportunity for growth?

I hired in at 42 years old. My intent from the start was to do this job. Although, through my nearly 20 years here, I have witnessed this co-op taking interest in younger men from other departments and moving them to the line apprentice program. In my opinion, to date, they have brought on some very good, hardworking young men to carry on the excellent service

to our members that has been established by our past and present lineworkers.

What part of your job do you find most fulfilling?

At the end of the day, it’s all about making sure the power keeps flowing. The most fulfilling part of my job is restoring service following an outage.

INTERESTED IN AN ELECTRIC CO-OP CAREER? Visit WePowerIndiana.org to learn about available careers or tell us about yourself.

36

FEBRUARY 2019