WIN Energy REMC - August 2023 Indiana Connection

Choose WaterFurnace

GEOTHERMAL HEATING, COOLING & HOT WATER

Energy savings up to 70% Even compared to high efficiency gas & air conditioning.

Environmentally friendly Recognized by the EPA and the Department of Energy.

Longer lifespan

25 year average for units and up to 100 years for loops.

Added resale value

Energy efficiency is a selling advantage for your home.

Delphi Blue Fox Htg & Clg

(765) 822-2200

bluefoxhvac.com

Farmersburg

Heady Htg & Clg

(812) 696-2396

Flora Camflo Htg & Clg

(574) 967-4200

camfloheatingandcooling.com

Fort Wayne Masters Htg & Clg, Inc.

(866) 824-4328

mastersingeothermal.com

Greensburg Wallpe Htg & Clg

(812) 663-7252

wallpegeothermal.com

Indianapolis Masters Htg & Clg by Van Valer, Inc. (317) 881-9074

mastersingeothermal.com

Jasper Hulsman Refrigeration, Inc.

(812) 634-1492

hulsmanrefrigeration.com

Laotto T&T Plbg, Htg, A/C & Geothermal (260) 200-4003

tt-ph.com

Lebanon Blue Fox Htg & Clg 765-859-0880 bluefoxhvac.com

North Vernon Air One Htg & Clg, Inc. (888) 346-1790 aironehvac.com

Ossian Collier’s Comfort Services (260) 622-6622 collierscomfort.com

Schererville AAA Services, Inc. (219) 472-8645 aaaserviceshvac.com

Waterloo Gibson’s Htg & Plbg, Inc. (888) 754-1668

gibsonsgeothermal.com

West Lafayette Blue Fox Htg & Clg (765) 252-0051

bluefoxhvac.com

Westfield Precision Comfort Systems, Inc. (800) 377-5667

precisioncomfort.com

Warsaw Colliers Htg & Air Conditioning (574) 269-3393

trustcolliers.com

from the editor

Meet the team: Amber Knight

Amber Knight is the creative manager of Indiana Electric Cooperatives and is a crucial component of the Indiana Connection team. She oversees the entire design of the magazine, including the cover, and has an unmatched eye for detail. Here’s more about her:

As creative manager, I ensure brand consistency and design excellence at IEC and Indiana Connection. I also lead our Creative Services Program, where our team assists co-ops throughout the state with their design needs, from graphic design and logos to photography and more. I love working with the IEC team and co-op communicators to deliver beautiful work. My job never feels like work!

Three facts about Amber:

• My creative passion began in high school as a member of the newspaper staff. I earned my bachelor’s degree in communication studies from Ball State University and have been doing creative work in marketing and communication ever since.

• Since becoming a homeowner, I’ve done a ton of home improvement projects. I have painted kitchen cabinets, installed flooring, built shelving for a bookcase and even constructed a large media cabinet. I’ve learned that you can do a lot with power tools and patience.

• I always have a book nearby. I enjoy getting lost in a good thriller or romantic comedy, and I love supporting indie authors. I read 58 books in 2022 and am on track to read even more this year!

Amber is brilliant, funny, diligent and all-around amazing. She brings terrific ideas, enthusiasm and inspiration to the team on a daily basis, and the magazine would not be the same without her.

Stephanie Groves Editor

sgroves@indianaec.org

Win Amber’s favorite DIY tool: a BLACK+DECKER® cordless screwdriver!

On the menu: December: Recipes using candy, deadline October 1. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Giveaway: Win a BLACK+DECKER cordless screwdriver with pivoting handle! Visit indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests or send your contact information to the address below. The deadline to enter is August 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 73 • 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 311,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership. Member’s cost per issue is approximately 32 cents, plus postage.

CONTACT US:

8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600 Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606 317-487-2220

info@indianaconnection.org

IndianaConnection.org

INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS:

Randy Kleaving President

Steve McMichael Vice President

Dr. Richard Leeper Secretary/Treasurer

John Cassady CEO

EDITORIAL STAFF:

Stephanie Groves Editor

Richard George Biever Senior Editor

Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist

Lauren Carman Communication Manager

Kiley Lipps Graphic Designer

Ashley Curry Production and Design Coordinator

Amber Knight Creative Manager

Mandy Barth Vice President of Communication

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 safekeeping 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, Indiana, 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.

Amber Knight

30

Shane Smith of Utilities District of Western Indiana REMC (NOT IN ALL

On the cover

Indiana’s Jaykob Troutwine from Hagerstown touches home plate before the tag for the Great Lakes during Little League Baseball’s World Series last August in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Which state will represent the Great Lakes Region at the World Series this year will be determined at the regional tournament in Whitestown, Aug. 5-9.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL

www.winenergyremc.com

CONTACT US

Toll Free: 800-882-5140

Local: 812-882-5140

Fax: 812-886-0306

AUTOMATED EXPRESS SERVICES

For outages and payments, call: 888-456-9876

OFFICE HOURS

7:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. ET Monday-Friday

VINCENNES OFFICE

3981 S. U.S. Highway 41 Vincennes, IN 47591

PRINCETON OFFICE

1314 W. 100 N. Princeton, IN 47670

SULLIVAN OFFICE

2044 W. State Road 154 Sullivan, IN 47882

UNDERGROUND LINE LOCATING

Please call 811 at least two business days before you plan to dig.

2023 OFFICE CLOSINGS

Labor Day: Monday, Sept. 4

Veterans Day: Friday, Nov. 10

Thanksgiving holiday: Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24

Christmas holiday: Monday, Dec. 25 and Tuesday, Dec. 26

Working around the clock

“WIN Energy REMC.”

That’s all you could hear throughout our offices as all hands were on deck to answer phones following the severe weather event that took place on Thursday, June 29. With over 8,000 members without power, our team was ready to take action and make a plan in order to restore power to all of our members as fast and safely as possible. The storm not only took out nearly half of our membership’s electricity, but it also took place across all eight counties we serve, in over 600 separate outages. After the original storm, our territory was hit by additional storms on Saturday and Sunday, slowing down restoration efforts as more outages occurred.

Our crews quickly found out that there was more work than they could bear, so help was called in. Crews from Hoosier Energy, Intren, Halter Tree Service, Atkinson Trenching, Midwest Energy (out of Michigan), Harrison REMC, Miami-Cass REMC, Boone REMC, Dubois REC and Daviess-Martin County REMC came to the rescue and assisted with restoration. Due to the amount of broken poles, tree damage, power lines down and continuous storms, restoration efforts moved slowly. In several areas, we had

to coordinate with tree crews to have tree debris cleared before being able to restore power. Crews worked day and night, even over the 4th of July holiday, to restore power throughout our service territory.

After seven days of crews working around the clock, power was restored to all members. We recognize that many of our members experienced prolonged outages that resulted in uncomfortable wait times in hot temperatures. You can’t be thanked enough for your patience and understanding. Another shoutout goes out to our employees and additional crews. A lot of long days and nights were spent in the effort to restore power. Thank you for your tremendous efforts!

While we hope that we do not experience an event like this for some time, please visit our website, winenergyremc.com, for more information on how to be prepared for severe weather.

We are proud to serve you!

TOM NOWASKIE CEO

$14,299.47 in grants awarded to local organizations

Operation Round Up program: Small change makes a BIG difference

The WIN Energy REMC Community Trust recently presented five grants totaling $14,299.47, awarded to the following organizations:

• Arthur Foundation, Inc received $3,200.82 to purchase equipment and tools for its camp.

• Dugger Lions Foundation Corporation (not pictured) received $1,239.84 to purchase metal shelving.

• Freedom Connection Recovery Center received $5,000 for startup equipment for its recovery facility.

• Old Town Players, Inc. received $2,358.81 to repair one of its air conditioners.

• Patoka Presbyterian Church received $2,500 for food and supplies for its food pantry.

The Operation Round Up program allows WIN Energy REMC members to reach out to worthy causes in their communities and work together to help others. Thank you to those members who round up their electric bills to the next highest dollar each month. Since the inception of the program in May 2013, 214 grants have been awarded to local organizations, totaling over $653,000. Your small change is really making a big difference for organizations in our community!

Arthur Foundation, Inc.

Old Town Players, Inc.

Freedom Connection Recovery Center

Patoka Presbyterian Church

Energy efficiency

Did you know ceiling fans can make a room feel 4 degrees cooler? To save energy through ceiling fan use, remember to raise your thermostat a few degrees while fans are turned on.

clockwise during winter months and set fans on a low speed so warm air can circulate from the ceiling to the lower levels of the room.

Remember, ceiling fans cool people,

CAMP KILOWATT

In June, Triton Boyle, Brayden Keller and Emery Whitanak attended Camp Kilowatt. Camp Kilowatt combines regular camp activities with the opportunity to learn more about electricity. WIN Energy REMC is proud to offer this electrifying experience to students in our service territory. Students that are going into seventh grade in the fall were eligible to apply for this experience. To learn more about our youth programs, please visit our website.

From left: Triton Boyle, Brayden Keller and Emery Whitanak.

Flipping the switch:

While electric vehicles are collectively trying to find a foothold with individual consumers, there’s at least one EV market that seems to be firing on all cylinders. That would be electric school buses, which are expected to have a growth rate of nearly 34% over the next five years, according to industry experts. That figure is nearly 11% higher than the electric vehicle market at large.

There are several factors driving this surge, including significant federal funding via the Clean School Bus Program.

Once schools can clear the hurdle of the higher cost of purchasing an electric school bus, there are several benefits. Electric school buses offer fuel efficiency and more reliable performance for school districts in search of costeffective transportation options. According to the National School Boards Association, each electric school bus will save an average of $6,000 per year in operational expenditures compared to a traditional bus.

Electric school buses can be used as battery storage for energy that can be transferred back into the grid, and the buses could also operate as alternative power sources during disasters or extended outages — talk to your co-op before you do this.

There’s also an added safety bonus: Electric buses operate quietly, allowing drivers to be more aware of what’s going on inside and outside of the vehicle.

In an effort to accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles and produce cleaner air in and around schools, the 2022 Clean School Bus Program awarded $5.315 million to six Indiana school districts to purchase a total of 19 buses. Thirteen of those buses were electric, and the other six were propane powered.

The recipients were Michigan City Area Schools (six buses), Northeastern Wayne Schools (six), Western Boone County Community School District (four), East Washington School Corporation,

Caston School Corporation and North Central Parke Community School Corporation.

There could be more buses in store soon for Indiana schools. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced that the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program will offer another approximately $400 million in competitive grant funding to eligible applicants for zeroemission school buses, clean school buses and charging infrastructure, and the application deadline is Aug. 22.

by Sandy Cason Director of Member Services and Corporate Relations Whitewater Valley REMC

Photo courtesy of Proterra.

Electric school buses are catching on

The Invention of the Year

Throughout the ages, there have been many important advances in mobility. Canes, walkers, rollators, and scooters were created to help people with mobility issues get around and retain their independence. Lately, however, there haven’t been any new improvements to these existing products or developments in this field. Until now. Recently, an innovative design engineer who’s developed one of the world’s most popular products created a completely new breakthrough . . . a personal electric vehicle. It’s called the Zinger, and there is nothing out there quite like it.

“What my wife especially loves is it gives her back feelings of safety and independence which has given a real boost to her confidence and happiness!

Thank You!”

–Kent C., California

The first thing you’ll notice about the Zinger is its unique look. It doesn’t look like a scooter. Its sleek, lightweight yet durable frame is made with aircraft grade aluminum so it weighs only 47.2 lbs. It features one-touch folding and unfolding – when folded it can be wheeled around like a suitcase and fits easily into a backseat or trunk. Then, there are the steering levers. They enable the Zinger to move forward, backward, turn on a dime and even pull right up to a table or desk. With its compact yet powerful

motor it can go up to 6 miles an hour and its rechargeable battery can go up to 8 miles on a single charge. With its low center of gravity and inflatable tires it can handle rugged terrain and is virtually tip-proof. Think about it, you can take your Zinger almost anywhere, so you don’t have to let mobility issues rule your life.

Why take our word for it? Call now, and find out how you can get a Zinger of your very own.

Call now and receive a utility basket absolutely FREE with your order.

1-888-782-6163

Please mention code 120073 when ordering.

Once in a lifetime, a product comes along that truly moves people. Introducing the future of battery-powered personal transportation . . . The Zinger.

Joystick can be mounted on the right or left side

The Zinger folds to a mere 10 inches.

Pulaski County COUNTY FACTS

In 1835, Pulaski County was one of two newly created northern Indiana counties that the state General Assembly named for Polish heroes of the American Revolution. The other was Kosciusko.

Count Casimir Pulaski was a Polish nobleman, soldier and military commander who has been called the “father of the American cavalry.” Though Pulaski deserved such an honor, one would have been hard-pressed to find a person of Polish descent in the area at the time of the county’s founding.

A FITTING NAME

People of Polish descent may have been rare in northwestern Indiana at the time Pulaski County was named, but the county seat is named after a Native American word.

New settlers to the area in 1839 dubbed the county seat “Winamac,” which is a Potawatomi term for “catfish.” It should be noted that the Tippecanoe River flows through the heart of Winamac, which meant catfish would have been plentiful.

BRIDGE CELEBRATES CENTENNIAL

The Winamac Town Park is home to a large suspension bridge over the Tippecanoe River. The Veterans Memorial Swinging Bridge was dedicated July 4, 1923, and has since been a popular local attraction.

In 2020, the “Light Up Our Legacy Project” began to raise money to install LED lights on the bridge. The goal was reached, and the bridge underwent renovations through the early spring of 2023. The lights were unveiled July 3 in celebration of the bridge’s 100th anniversary.

FISH AND WILDLIFE ABOUND

Pulaski County is also home to multiple areas to view wildlife and enjoy nature, including the Winamac Fish & Wildlife Area, Tippecanoe River State Park and the JasperPulaski Fish & Wildlife Area. Located on more than 8,000 acres, the Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area is a notable stop for more than 10,000 sandhill cranes during their fall migration pattern.

FOUNDED: 1835

NAMED FOR: Count Casimir Pulaski

POPULATION: 13,402

COUNTY SEAT: Winamac

INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 66

Photo by Marty Jones

Winamac

Tippecanoe River State Park Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area Veterans Memorial Swinging Bridge

Photo courtesy of Facebook.com /memorialswingingbridge

It’s time to apply for the YOUTH POWER AND HOPE AWARDS

Indiana Connection and Indiana’s electric cooperatives are proud to sponsor the Youth Power and Hope Awards program. Since 2009, the program has annually honored Indiana youth in grades 5-8 for their community service. Past winners’ community projects have included raising money for Riley Hospital for Children and donating toys for its patients, collecting coats for the less fortunate and providing police officers with stuffed animals to comfort children in crisis situations. Could a community-minded young person you know be one of our next winners? Encourage him/her to apply!

Up to five qualified candidates will receive $500 and be featured in an upcoming issue of Indiana Connection, among other recognition.

For more information and to complete an application, visit indianaconnection.org/ youthpowerandhope Deadline to apply is Monday, Oct. 2.

WE REPAIR LEAKY LAKES GUARANTEED

We know how to find all water leaks underground. Call us!

812-987-4119

Serving IN, OH, IL, KY & TN

www.WhatsBelow.com

MARKETPLACE

Our Marketplace offers maximum exposure for your business or organization at a minimal cost. Please contact Cheryl Solomon, 847-749-4875 or cheryl@amp.coop, for other small business advertising opportunities in Indiana Connection.

To DIY … or not to DIY

When planning home improvement projects — especially those that involve electrical work — do you know when to DIY and when to hire a professional?

Homeowners wanting to do it themselves can tackle many types of projects, but when safety becomes an issue, seek a professional with appropriate training, equipment and insurance. “Painting a bedroom may be an easy weekend project, for example, but climbing a tall ladder for an exterior paint job can be a safety risk,” noted Jon Elkins, vice president of safety, training and compliance at Indiana Electric Cooperatives.

To avoid electrocution and fires, most electrical work should be left to professional licensed electricians. Home rewiring, breaker box replacement and adding a large number of electrical outlets are among tasks you should consider leaving for the pros. Faulty electrical installations can lead to large additional expenses and even injuries or death.

If you’re doing work yourself with power tools, be careful. Annually, 8% of electrocutions in the U.S. are attributed to improper use of power tools. The Electrical Safety Foundation International offers the following safety tips:

• Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) with every power tool to protect against electrical shock.

• Never use power tools near live electrical wires or water pipes.

• Use extreme caution when cutting or drilling into walls where electrical wires or water pipes could be accidentally touched or penetrated.

• Do not use power tools without the proper guards.

If your home improvement includes additional living space and/or added outlets, make sure your home electrical panel and service can handle the added load. In addition, verify that all electrical work is done by a certified, licensed electrician and that local permits, if needed, are secured.

Call 811 several days in advance if any digging is part of the project so the appropriate utilities serving your area can determine if they have buried lines of service in the scope of your project and mark where those are located.

Whether your home improvement is being done by yourself or a contractor, contact your electric utility ahead of time if your meter must be removed or relocated to accommodate additions or renovations (such as home additions, fences, decks or patios) to your property. In almost all areas it is illegal for a homeowner to break the seal on a utility meter or pull or set a meter. Aside from being dangerous without protective gear, there could be fines involved if you don’t call the utility first to explain the situation.

Remember, you should only tackle DIY home projects within your skill and comfort level. “For projects that require extensive electrical work, we strongly recommend you hire a licensed, qualified electrician for assistance,” said Elkins.

How a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can change your life

Remember when…

Think about the things you loved to do that are dif cult today — going for a walk or just sitting comfortably while reading a book. And remember the last time you got a great night’s sleep?

As we get older, health issues or even everyday aches, pains and stress can prevent us from enjoying life. So what’s keeping you from having a better quality of life?

Check all the conditions that apply to you.

Arthritis Dry Skin

Insomnia Anxiety

Diabetes Mobility Issues

Lower Back Poor Pain

Then read on to learn how a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can help. Feel better, sleep better, live better

A Safe Step Walk-In Tub lets you indulge in a warm, relaxing bath that can help relieve life’s aches, pains and worries.

A Safe Step Tub can help increase mobility, boost energy and improve sleep.

It’s got everything you should look for in a walk-in tub:

• Heated Seat – Providing soothing warmth from start to nish.

• MicroSoothe ® Air Therapy System – helps oxygenate and soften skin while offering therapeutic bene ts.

• Pain-relieving therapy – Hydro massage jets target sore muscles and joints.

• Safety features – Low step-in, grab bars and more can help you bathe safely and maintain your independence.

• Free Shower Package – shower while seated or standing.

get a kick out of Angry Donkey

Keltie Sullivan is a culinary professional with decades of restaurant experience, including a ten-year run at her eponymous bistro Keltie’s in Westfield until 2012. Keltie said that she didn’t plan on opening another restaurant after closing Keltie’s, but when she saw the existing Angry Donkey storefront on Main Street in Michigantown en route to visit her mother in Delphi, she eventually had a change of heart. Keltie purchased the Angry Donkey in 2018 and has since made it into her own flourishing restaurant endeavor.

So, how exactly did the space get its equine-inspired moniker?

Keltie explained that “the restaurant used to be called the Michigantown House, where the locals would come in and mostly drink. It was nicknamed the ‘mule barn’ years and years ago, so the previous owners before me were trying to come up with a name and kept going back to ‘The Mule.’ Eventually, the name ‘donkey’ came up, and they loved the ‘Angry Donkey.’”

Keltie investigated how much it would cost to change the signage, and after she found out that the price would be “upwards of $30,000,” she decided to stick with the existing name and never look back.

Angry Donkey’s website describes the eatery as “a fullservice, family-friendly restaurant offering a wide variety of Hoosier-inspired cuisine.” Once inside, you’ll find a casual but well-thought-out atmosphere. There is a large, beautiful wooden bar flanked by big-screen TVs, and the dining rooms are spacious.

The real reason you’re here, though, is the scrumptious food. Almost everything is made from scratch, including

Keltie’s signature “beggar’s purse,” described as chicken salad with blue and cheddar cheeses baked in puff pastry and served on a bed of cranberry compote. There is also the “Triple PIG,” featuring a pork burger loaded with pulled pork and bacon jam, topped with pepper jack cheese and slaw on Texas toast. Keltie’s smoked chicken wings, splashed with hot sauce, are also crowd-pleasers. In addition, the weekly specials are worth investigating, including the dessert offerings.

The bar is stocked, and yes, there is a mule on the current cocktail menu — made with vodka, ginger beer and lime juice. You’ll also find “The Keltini,” a blend of Grey Goose vodka, crème de cassis and a splash of pineapple juice with a “lemony” rim.

Word-of-mouth is consistently positive regarding Keltie’s delicious food and welcoming hospitality, so if you’d like to try Angry Donkey for yourself, you may want to make a reservation, especially on weekend nights. The restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, but you can visit Angrydonkeymtown.com for up-to-date hours and to reserve a table.

smoked chicken wings

The Bracelets That Italy

“The renown of Italy’s jewelry, with its sensual beauty and extraordinary craftsmanship, is founded on the goldsmithing skills passed down through generations.” – The New York Times

Iguess I was a little bored. For the past hour, I’d been on the phone with Daniele, the head of my office in Italy, reviewing our latest purchases of Italian gold, Murano glass and Italian-made shoes and handbags.

“Daniele,” I said, “What is the hottest jewelry in Italy right now?”

His reply? Woven gold bracelets studded with gems. He texted me some photos and I knew immediately that this was jewelry that Raffinato just had to have.

The best part about these bracelets? The price. Because of our longstanding connections in Arezzo, the mecca of Italian goldsmithing, we can offer both bracelets together for just $99, a fraction of the price you’ll pay anywhere else for similar jewelry.

Order today. These bracelets are one of our hottest sellers this year, and with disruptions in the supply chain, we can only guarantee that we have 1,273 861 of these bracelets on hand for this ad.

Make the next gift you give your loved one a trip to Italy with the Italiano Fantasia Bracelets, stunning accessories that are sure to turn heads.

Jewelry Specifications:

Presenting the Italiano Fantasia Bracelets, two designs that are prime examples of Italy’s finest artisanship. Each of these bracelets includes more than 20 brilliant cut gems of DiamondAura®, our Ultimate Diamond Alternative®, in a setting finished with 18 karat Italian gold.

What is DiamondAura®? Why, it’s a sparkling marvel that rivals even the finest diamonds (D Flawless) with its transparent color and clarity: The book “Jewelry and Gems: The Buying Guide,” praised the technique used in our diamond alternative: “The best diamond simulation to date, and even some jewelers have mistaken these stones for mined diamonds,” it raved.

• Made in Arezzo, Italy. 18k gold finish

• DiamondAura®, the Ultimate Diamond Alternative®

• Fit wrists up to 7 ¼"

Italiano Fantasia Bracelet Collection

A. X Bracelet (¼ ctw) $399 $59* + S&P Save $340

B. Woven Bracelet (⅓ ctw) $299 $59* + S&P Save $240 Set of Both $698 $99* + S&P Save $599

*Special price only for customers using the offer code.

A.

B.

all flavor No fuss,

ONE-PAN SUCCESS IN 30 MINUTES OR LESS

SKILLET SPAGHETTI

Alicia Unger, North Manchester, Indiana

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

2-4 minced garlic cloves, to taste

1 (24-ounce) jar pasta sauce

1 (14½-ounce) can diced tomatoes

2½ cups chicken broth

16 ounces uncooked spaghetti, broken in half Parmesan cheese, to taste

Heat a deep, wide skillet or a stock pot over low/medium heat. Add olive oil, onion and garlic and cook until onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add pasta sauce, diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring mixture to a boil. Stir in spaghetti, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 11-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Serve topped with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

VEGETABLE BEEF AND RICE DINNER

Patricia Piekarski, Harvey, Illinois

1 pound ground beef

1 small onion, chopped

1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (14½-ounce) can beef broth

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables

2 cups instant rice, uncooked

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

In a large skillet, brown ground beef and onion; drain. Add tomatoes, broth and vegetables; stir and bring mixture to a boil. Stir in rice and cheese, cover, then remove skillet from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired and serve.

SAUSAGE SUB SANDWICHES

Glenda Ferguson, Paoli, Indiana

1 pound Italian sausage links

10 ounces frozen pepper and onion blend

3 medium tomatoes, chopped

Garlic salt (or salt substitute) and pepper, to taste

4 sandwich buns/rolls

Cook sausages in a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink, about 10 minutes. Drain. Remove the sausages and slice them into halfinch pieces, then return to the pan. Add the frozen vegetables. Cover for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender. Add tomatoes and seasonings and cook for 2 minutes. Hollow out the bottom of the buns/rolls. Fill with the cooked sausage mixture and serve.

Takes 10 Years Off Your Face in as Little as 10 Minutes

Women are raving about the life-changing effects of this powerful formula.

There’s no denying that people — mostly women — are on a mission to discover the best way to eliminate fine lines and wrinkles permanently. The $14 billion dollars spent on aesthetic procedures in 2021 alone is a clear indication of that fact.

But now science appears to be offering a simpler solution. It’s a special delivery technology adapted for skincare that gets superior results.

Known as advanced liposome technology, this powerful distribution system ensures that vital nutrients are delivered exactly where your skin needs them the most, providing your skin with maximum anti-aging benefits.

New Age-Defying ‘Dermal Filler’ Cream in High Demand

Al Sears, MD, of Palm Beach, Florida, recently released an anti-aging cream that adapts this breakthrough medical technology into the realm of skincare, and he’s struggling to keep up with consumer demand.

Dr. Sears is South Florida’s leading anti-aging pioneer. He has authored over 500 reports, scientific papers, and books on anti-aging. A frequent lecturer at global anti-aging conferences, Dr. Sears spoke at the WPBF 25 Health & Wellness Festival featuring Dr. Oz, along with special guest, Suzanne Somers. Thousands of people were in attendance as Dr. Sears discussed his latest anti-aging breakthroughs.

This powerful cream, known as Restore, keeps selling out faster than it’s produced — and people are raving about the effect it’s having on their skin.

“Within a few minutes of applying the cream, it visibly plumps out the under-eye area and my cheeks as well as those annoying lines that deepen as we age between the nose

and lips. It also felt like it was tightening and smoothing my skin at the same time. I definitely feel I look younger whenever I use it,” said Amy B., of Montville, New Jersey.

“The lines around my mouth and eyes are filled in and my skin is tightened. I love having younger-looking skin, so I will continue using Restore” raves Cathy C., of Florida.

The best part is that this cream has no adverse side effects, doesn’t require a doctor’s visit or prescription, and is 100% natural.

volume.”

When you apply liposome cream to your face, the liposomes in the skin cream work their way inside your skin, fuse with the skin cell membranes and then release their contents directly to the cells. Regular skin creams don’t have this capability.

A Formula Designed to Take Years off Your Face in Minutes

Powerful Delivery System Ensures Nutrients Penetrate Deep into Your Skin

The dermis is the underlying layer of skin that supplies nourishment and oxygen, and removes waste. In other words, it’s responsible for keeping your outer layer of skin healthy. Liposome technology is designed to support and nourish this deeper layer of skin by delivering nutrients directly to it.

“All of Restore’s powerful ingredients are encapsulated in a liposome shell — an organic container that carries the beautifying agents deep into the skin cells,” explained Dr. Sears.

“Restore’s liposome shell is composed of phosphatidylcholine or PC for short. While cell membranes repel water, they absorb PC because they’re actually made of it. As a result, Restore is delivered deep into the cell for maximum firming and

Once it’s penetrated the deeper layer of skin, Restore releases a unique blend of botanicals, vitamins and essential oils that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, gives skin a more even tone, and moisturizes the interior layers of your dermal cells, firming and plumping your skin.

Restore’s first skin-enhancing agent is Madonna lily leaf stem cell extract. It helps produce an even-toned complexion. In a clinical study reported in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, participants treated with this extract for 28 days showed improvements in skin luminance and tone around the eyes.

Restore is also loaded with vitamin C, which British researchers have found reduces both wrinkles and dryness. “In Restore we use magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, a more stable form of vitamin C that

doesn’t break down in liquid as does ordinary C,” explains Dr. Sears. “That means the antioxidant molecules stay intact within your skin cells where they can prevent damage from dangerous free radicals.”

This powerful formula also features guarana seed extract, coenzyme Q10, and avocado oil. Japanese researchers have also found that coenzyme Q10 supports production of the thin membrane that separates layers of your skin, and French studies have shown that avocado oil improves skin cell metabolism and enhances skin thickness.

Where To Get Restore

To secure the hot, new Restore formula, buyers should contact the Sears Health Hotline at 1-800-6820708 TODAY. “It’s not available in retail stores yet,” says Dr. Sears. “The Hotline allows us to ship directly to the customer.” Dr. Sears feels so strongly about Restore, all orders are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee. “Just send me back the bottle and any unused product within 90 days from purchase date, and I’ll send you all your money back.”

Call NOW at 1-800-682-0708 to secure your supply of Restore. Use Promo Code INRS823 when you call. Lines are frequently busy, but all calls will be answered!

Revolutionary Formula Reduces the Appearance of Wrinkles in Minutes

“Advanced liposome technology ensures that vital nutrients are delivered exactly where your skin needs them the most.”

Play ball! Play ball!

LITTLE LEAGUE BRINGS HOOSIERS TO THE PLATE

BY RICHARD G. BIEVER

Photo by Richard G. Biever

ittle Leaguers from Hagerstown won the hearts of Hoosiers all over the state last August when they advanced to the Little League Baseball World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. They were Indiana’s first representatives at the World Series since their next-door neighbors from New Castle in 2012.

Indiana may not have a Major League Baseball team, but true to the state’s reputation as an amateur sports capital, Hoosiers embrace and foster the love of sports at all basic levels. That’s why the 3-year-old Little League Baseball Central Region Headquarters Complex in Whitestown is a fitting and welcomed addition to the Indiana sporting landscape.

“One of the things that makes Little League unique is that this is the purest you’ll ever see sport. It’s just the purest emotion,” said Stu Hartenstein, Little League’s Central Region director. “Why it’s on TV, and why people are so drawn to it, is they want the innocence of youth sports. And it doesn’t matter what division it is. That’s what makes it so magical.”

Hagerstown punched its ticket to the World Series last year by winning the Great Lakes Region Tournament at the Central Region’s field. During the first two weeks of August, the complex on the northwestern outskirts of Indianapolis will once again host the best Little League Baseball teams from 13 states in two regional tournaments. The winners of the two regions, the Great Lakes and Midwest, will then advance to the Little League World Series in Williamsport.

“It’s just awesome to be able to afford youth the opportunities here to make some lifelong memories,” Hartenstein said. “You ask a lot of our volunteers who have been with the organization 50, 60, 70 years, why they keep coming back, and a lot of it is just continuing to help create for today’s youth the same memories and relationships that have endured throughout their lives.”

At 36, Hartenstein has been involved with Little League ever since he was a tot, beginning with T-ball, continuing with Little League, then volunteering as an umpire for many years, until finally taking one of the few paid positions with the organization. “That connectivity to community, to people, is something that is challenged in today’s society,” he said, “and we are one of the staples in our country that still try to allow that to be the heartbeat.”

As with all Little League events, there’s no admission charge to the ballpark at Whitestown or even Williamsport. Seating, though limited, is generally open in the grandstand. Lawn chairs are welcomed along the fence lines, and concessions are moderately priced.

FIRST PITCH

The notion for a baseball league for kids, with their own uniforms and

proportionately sized equipment and field, originated in 1938 in Williamsport. Carl Stotz, a lumberyard clerk, told of watching his nephews playing a game of catch when the idea came to him. The next spring, Stotz gathered local sponsors and organized a league of three teams — Lundy Lumber, Lycoming Dairy and Jumbo Pretzel — and drew up a field essentially two-thirds the dimensions of the big leagues. Instead of 90 feet between the bases, his “little league” had 60; instead of 60 feet from the pitcher’s mound to home, his was 46 feet. On June 6, 1939, Stotz’s creation, Little League Baseball, played ball for the first time, with Lundy Lumber winning 23-8 over Lycoming Dairy.

Within just a decade, and despite the nation being focused on winning World War II in the middle of it, Little League had spread out from central Pennsylvania across the United States. Within another 10 years, it

Hagerstown celebrates winning Little League’s Great Lakes Region championship last year at Whitestown.

Photo courtesy of Little League Baseball and Softball

had gone international. In 1957, the first team from outside the U.S. — Monterey, Mexico — won the Little League World Series.

Today, Little League is played in some 6,500 communities by some 2 million players with 1 million adult volunteers. Little League is in every U.S. state and more than 80 countries. It is more than just baseball for boys and girls ages 10-12. Today, it includes programs and divisions of baseball and softball for all youth ages 4 to 16, including youth with special needs.

While Williamsport remains the headquarters, Little League has divided into five administrative regions in the U.S.: East — located in Bristol, Connecticut; Central — in Whitestown; Southeast — in Warner Robins, Georgia; Southwest — in Waco, Texas; and West — in San Bernardino, California. International regions are in Puerto Rico, Canada, South Korea and Poland.

The Whitestown facility serves as the administrative hub for Little League Baseball and Softball activities for the five states in the Great Lakes Region (Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Michigan), and eight in the Midwest Region (Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota). How states land in their respective regions for competition depends on geography and participation numbers; Little League strives to maintain equal representation and a competitive balance for each region, Hartenstein said.

Before reaching the region tournament, the teams, composed of all-stars from each community’s local league, will have already won their local district and respective state tournaments held in July. (Because of this issue’s printing deadline, Indiana Connection is unable to include this year’s Indiana representative in this article). They then compete in the region tournament representing their state. The two regional champs decided in Whitestown will go on to the Little League World Series later this month in Williamsport. There, they will compete against eight other regional champions from within the U.S. and 10 international regional champs.

IN SCORING POSITION

When Little League established its regional headquarters in 1989, the Central Region was located in Lawrence on the east side of Indianapolis. By the mid-2010s, however, the original location was seeing some problems.

The complex was too large, noted Hartenstein, which made it harder to maintain for the volunteer organization. Hartenstein and one other staff member are currently the only two full-time employees for the Central Region. In addition, the region director at the time, Nina Johnson-Pitt, cited high crime and deterioration of the area as another reason Little League began seeking a new location.

While the Central Region administration moved to a small office

INDIANA TO HOST TWO REGION TOURNAMENTS

Little League Baseball’s Central Region complex will host the champions representing 13 states in two regional tournaments early this month. Both the Great Lakes Region Tournament and Midwest Region Tournament will be held concurrently at the Whitestown complex to determine the two to move on to the Little League World Series later this month in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

GREAT LAKES REGION

Game 1: Michigan vs. Ohio

Aug. 5 • 10 a.m.

Game 2: Illinois vs. Indiana

Aug. 5 • 7 p.m.

Game 3: Winner 1 vs. Kentucky

Aug. 6 • 4 p.m.

Remaining games: Aug. 6-9

MIDWEST REGION

Game 1: Kansas vs. North Dakota

Aug. 4 • 10 a.m.

Game 2: Wisconsin vs. Missouri

Aug. 4 • 1 p.m.

Game 3: Minnesota vs. Nebraska

Aug. 4 • 4 p.m.

Games 4: Iowa vs. South Dakota

Aug. 4 • 7 p.m.

Remaining games: Aug. 6-11

Winners of both regions advance to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, Aug. 16-27

The Central Region complex is at 7185 S. Indianapolis Road, Whitestown, IN 46075. For full schedules and details, visit: littleleague.org/central

The Central Region field.

Photo courtesy of Little League Baseball and Softball

in Carmel, the regional tournament games were held in the interim at the new Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, Fishers High School and Zionsville High School. Little League, with its special field dimensions, required tweaking to fields not made for Little League. In addition, the field required more spectator room for families and fans and areas for television cameras since ESPN had begun televising even the regional tournament games. Not only were there the field aspects, but the region facility also needed room to host training events for league officials, coaches and umpires throughout the year.

A search for a new facility location included sites near Indianapolis and out of state.

In 2020, Little League and the Whitestown Redevelopment Commission came to an agreement on a 15-acre site on a fast-growing corridor road parallel to Interstate 65. The complex, served electrically by Boone REMC, includes an administration building, gift shop,

concession stand, restrooms, batting cages and a regulation-size, lighted Little League field with stadium seating, bleachers and a press box.

In addition to the Town of Whitestown, the Boone County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau also stepped up to bat for the facility. “The Boone County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau made a commitment to attracting Little League to Boone County,” said Allyson Gutwein, the executive director of the Boone County CVB.

“Little League is so important because it really fulfills multiple needs of tourism and placemaking. It’s great for the community. It’s great for attracting people who want to come and see the tournaments. Little League is a great example of what we really want to see in those tourist attractions, and we want to make sure that they know they’re supported,” Gutwein said.

The facility opened in July of 2021, during the pandemic, which brought strict protocols and limited attendance to the softball and

baseball tournaments. Last year, the first full-scale tournaments for the new complex were held. “We were very pleased with our attendance,” Hartenstein said, adding, “So we anticipate probably having a record year with attendance.”

Since there are no tickets, he said, attendance is not tracked closely. “Sometimes that’s dependent upon how many volunteers we have available to help us. Attendance fluctuates day by day. Certainly, the Great Lakes games are more well attended simply because they’re closer. If we had a local team, like Hagerstown, there were nights where we had 5,000 people here.”

Whatever the attendance, the folks at the Boone County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau are ready to wave the fans in.

“We’re excited to welcome guests from all over the Midwest, the United States and all over the world in order to see this,” said Gutwein, “because not only are people able to see this locally, but it’s being broadcast

Hagerstown, wearing the Great Lakes Region uniforms, gathers for a team prayer at last year’s Little League World Series in Williamsport.

Photo courtesy of Little League Baseball and Softball

globally on multiple networks. And that really is exciting because we know that people are seeing our community. That’s fantastic for the local economy, our businesses and all of those that are involved in Little League.”

COMING HOME

Hartenstein, a native of Ohio, wasn’t involved in the decisions that kept Little League Baseball in central Indiana when it was looking for a new facility. But he appreciates what Indiana has had to offer Little Leaguers and their families who come for the tournaments.

“A lot of our communities across the nation really embrace Little League baseball — its values, what it tries to instill in local communities and what it really means to develop young athletes. And Indiana is certainly one of the states in the country that very much caters to the hospitality industry, as well as youth sports. So, there’s kind of a perfect storm here in

LITTLE LEAGUE RED LETTER DATES

1938:

Carl Stotz creates the idea for Little League baseball in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

June 6, 1939:

First Little League game is played in Williamsport.

1947:

The first Little League World Series is played.

1949:

Little League spreads to 307 leagues across the United States; the first team from Indiana (Lafayette) plays in the Little League World Series.

1951:

First permanent league outside the U.S. is established in British Columbia, Canada.

1955:

Indiana. There is a huge buy-in and interest here.”

He also credits county and local governments and the county CVB, especially the Town of Whitestown, for welcoming Little League. “They have gone above and beyond to not only welcome us but continue to work with us. We have an awesome partnership with them. Indiana is a special place for Little League because we get the town embracing the values of Little League, what it stands for and what it can bring.”

We’ll all find out in a couple of weeks after the Great Lakes Region Tournament whether an Indiana team plays in Williamsport again this year. But win or lose at the local community ballpark, Whitestown or Williamsport, Little Leaguers can take heart knowing that Hoosiers welcome them and root for them — and all that they play for.

Richard G. Biever is senior editor of Indiana Connection.

Little League expands to all 48 U.S. states.

1957:

A team from Monterey, Mexico becomes the first team from outside the U.S. to win the Little League World Series.

1974:

Little League changes rules to allow girls to play alongside boys.

1989:

Little League divides into administrative regions. The Central Region is headquarted in Indianapolis.

June 26, 2021:

The Central Region opens its new 15-acre complex in Whitestown.

August 2022:

Representing Indiana, Hagerstown wins the Great Lakes Region and becomes the 16th team from Indiana to advance to Williamsport.

Aug. 4-11, 2023:

Central Region facility to host Great Lakes and Midwest tournaments.

One of the things that makes Little League unique is that this is the purest you’ll ever see sport.

STU HARTENSTEIN, Central Region director

Photo by Richard G. Biever

BOOST BLOOD FLOW TO YOUR LEGS, FEET, AND HANDS WITH A 95% SUCCESS RATE VERIFIED BY CLINICAL STUDY

A re-discovery from the 1600s is causing a frenzy within the medical system. A weird herb has been shown in six clinical studies (and by thousands of users) to be very effective for leg and feet pain, burning and numbness – with no side effects – at low cost – and with no doctor visit or prescription needed.

This weird herb comes from a 12-foot tall tree that grows in Greece and other countries in Europe. In the old days, people noticed that when their horses who had leg and feet problems ate this herb – it was almost like magic how quickly their problems got much better. They called it the “horse herb”. Then somehow with Europe’s ongoing wars, this herbal secret got lost in time.

“It works for people who’ve tried many other treatments before with little or no success. Other doctors and I are shocked at how effective it is. It has created a lot of excitement” says Dr. Ryan Shelton, M.D.

Its active ingredient has been put into pill form and improved. It is being offered in the United States under the brand name Neuro�lo.

WHY ALL THIS EXCITEMENT?

Researchers have found an herb originally from Greece that has been shown in six placebo-controlled medical studies (543 participants) to be effective and safe. This natural compound strengthens blood vessel walls and reduces swelling to stop the pain and suffering.

95% Reduction in LEG SWELLING, Veri�ied in Clinical Study

Says Dove Medical Press & Development and Therapy

... meaning, discomfort, water retention, leg swelling, tiredness and circulation improved in 95% of test subjects

Poor blood �low in the legs and feet is one of the common problems that develops as we age. Millions of Americans suffer from neuropathy and chronic venous insuf�iciency (CVI), edema, and other leg/ feet problems – millions have these but are undiagnosed.

Today’s treatments don’t work for a high percentage of people – and they have side effects that make them hard to tolerate or that people do not want to risk. This includes prescription drugs, over the counter pain pills, surgery and compression.

HOW IT WORKS

Here’s why you have pain now: Your arteries have weakened. Your arteries can’t carry enough blood, nutrients and oxygen down to your legs and feet. This damages your nerves and causes your burning, tingling and numbness.

The herbs in the pill Neuro�lo strengthen your arteries that carry blood, nutrients and oxygen to your feet and legs. It improves your circulation so oxygenated blood goes to the nerves and repairs them. This makes your nerves grow stronger so your pain fades away and your legs and feet feel much younger again.

Katerina King from Murrieta, California says, “I had hands and feet tingling and snapping and burning feeling. It made my life very uncomfortable. I had a hard time walking, my legs felt like they each weighed 50 pounds. Once I got in my car and my feet felt so heavy I couldn’t even drive the car. With Neuro�lo I have no more tingling, cold or burning painful legs and feet. It went away.”

WHAT DOCTORS ARE SAYING

“Now I �inally have a natural solution I can recommend to my patients who suffer from leg and feet problems and pain. I’m delighted because previous treatments were not effective, but Neuro�lo has worked for every one of my patients with no side effects” says Dr. Eric Wood, N.D.

WORKS IN AMAZING WAY: A prickly plant was used in Europe in the 1600s to revitalize ailing legs. Lost over the centuries, it is now making a comeback as US doctors rediscover its impressive results – sending relief to thousands of users with:

• Burning, Tingling, Numbness

• Swollen, Achy Feet

• Painful Legs & Feet

• Varicose Veins

for safe and fast relief,” said Dr. Wood, a Harvard trained doctor who has appeared on award winning TV shows.

Now you can get a good night’s sleep - peaceful, restful sleep – with no pain, tingling, zinging, itching or zapping. Improve your balance and coordination. No side effects – safe to take with other medications. Enjoy your favorite activities and hobbies again. Be more active, have more fun, enjoy life more. Don’t risk irreversible damage to your feet and hands. Don’t get worse and wind up in the hospital or a nursing home. Neuro�lo is GUARANTEED to work for you – or you will get full refund with a 90-day unconditional money-back guarantee. It is NOT sold in stores or online. No prescription or doctor visit is required.

50% OFF FOR THE NEXT 10 DAYS

This is the of�icial release of NeuroFlo for readers of Indiana Connection. Therefore, everyone who calls within the next 10 days will receive 50% OFF their �irst order. A toll-free hotline number has been set up for local readers to call for this 50% OFF savings. The number will be open starting at 7:00 am today and only for the next 10 days.

Swollen legs are a warning sign. They mean blood and fluid is forced out of the blood vessels into the surrounding tissue. This causes non-stop pain. This is where Neuroflo’s active ingredient is such a big help.

Dr. Ryan Shelton, M.D. says “This is new and different. It works for people who’ve tried many other things before. It is natural with no side effects. Don’t give up hope for your leg and feet pain, burning, tingling and numbing. This pill is working for countless people after other treatments have failed them. I highly recommend it.”

“Neuro�lo is a terri�ic choice for people with leg and feet issues. The clinical trials in support of this herb show it is very effective

All you have to do is CALL TOLL FREE 1-855-707-8427 and provide the operator with the special 50% OFF discount approval code: NEF158.

Important: Due to Neuro�lo’s popularity and recent media exposure on ABC, CBS and FOX NEWS, phone lines are often busy. If you call and do not get through immediately, please be patient and call back. Those who miss the 10 day deadline for 50% OFF will have to pay more for Neuro�lo.

If your tired, achy legs and feet are preventing you from moving easily... Now, a prickly herb has been discovered to….

Now, THIS is a Knife!

EXCLUSIVE FREE

Inthe blockbuster film, when a strapping Australian crocodile hunter and a lovely American journalist were getting robbed at knife point by a couple of young thugs in New York, the tough Aussie pulls out his dagger and says “That’s not a knife, THIS is a knife!” Of course, the thugs scattered and he continued on to win the reporter’s heart.

Our Aussie friend would approve of our rendition of his “knife.” Forged of high grade 420 surgical stainless steel, this knife is an impressive 16" from pommel to point. And, the blade is full tang, meaning it runs the entirety of the knife, even though part of it is under wraps in the natural bone and wood handle.

Secured in a tooled leather sheath, this is one impressive knife, with an equally impressive price.

This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.

But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99, 8x21 power compact binoculars, and a genuine leather sheath when you purchase the Down Under Bowie Knife

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Down Under Bowie Knives for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers at a price that won’t drag you under.

Stauer® 8x21 Compact Binoculars

-a $99 valuewith purchase of Down Under Knife

What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives

“This knife is beautiful!”

— J., La Crescent, MN

“The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.”

— H., Arvada, CO

BONUS! Call today and you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath!

Down Under Bowie Knife $249* Offer Code Price Only $99 + S&P Save $150

1-800-333-2045

Your Insider Offer Code: DUK379-01

You must use the insider offer code to get our special price.

Rating of A+

14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. DUK379-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price. California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.

• Etched stainless steel full tang blade ; 16” overall

• Painted natural bone and wood handle • Brass hand guards, spacers & end cap • Includes genuine tooled leather sheath

Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary

This 16" full tang stainless steel blade is not for the faint of heart —now ONLY $99!

While many children of all ages were relieved to be out of school for the summer, there were several deserving students from Hoosier Energy member cooperatives who were looking ahead to the 2023-24 school year.

That’s because a total of 14 cooperatives, 13 in the state of Indiana, awarded scholarships to 90 students this year, surpassing last year’s total of 86 awards.

There were three recipients of statewide awards this year. Alivia Hopper of Orange County REMC and Ethan Haenlein of South Central Indiana REMC each received $1,000 Indiana Electric Cooperatives Managers’ Association Scholarships,

INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE

90 scholarships awarded

and Bree Vollman of Wayne-White Counties Electric Cooperative received the Thomas H. Moore Illinois Electric Cooperatives Memorial Scholarship for $2,000. The remainder of the scholarships were awarded by local cooperatives — Bartholomew County REMC, Clark County REMC, Harrison REMC, Henry County REMC, Jackson County REMC, JCREMC, Orange County REMC, RushShelby Energy, South Central Indiana REMC, Southeastern Indiana REMC, Southern Indiana Power, Wayne-White Counties Electric Cooperative, Whitewater Valley REMC and WIN Energy REMC.

Some other notable scholarship winners were Laney Ruiz of

Columbus North High School, who received the $5,000 Alex Barkes Memorial Scholarship from Bartholomew County REMC, and Emily Miller of Jeffersonville High School, who was awarded the $2,500 Cindy Hockensmith Memorial Scholarship from Clark County REMC. Ailyn Hendricks of Franklin Community High School and Micah Robertson of Center Grove High School each received $2,000 academic scholarships from JCREMC. The remainder of the scholarships awarded ranged from $500 to $1,000.

Hoosier Energy and its member cooperatives are proud to invest in the future by helping jumpstart these students’ educational journeys.

Bright futures

The month of June sure puts a spring in the step of Indiana’s electric cooperatives; it’s the only way they can keep up with the participants of two of their most important community outreach programs: Camp Kilowatt and the Indiana Youth Tour.

Camp Kilowatt, held June 7-10 at YMCA Camp Tecumseh near Brookston, introduced 100 incoming seventh graders, sponsored by 28 electric co-ops, to electric utility careers with circuit boards and bucket truck rides, electric vehicles and electric safety. That was in addition to all the regular summer camp activities like zip lining, horseback riding, swimming, archery, riflery, canoeing, storytelling and singing at a campfire, and a new addition to Tecumseh named Skywalkers, a type of vertical obstacle course.

One Youth Tour participant is selected each year to represent the state on the national Youth Leadership Council. This year's delegate is Abby Allen from Tipmont, center. Natalie Walker from Bartholomew County REMC, right, was selected as the alternate and Madeline Moore from Heartland REMC, left, named runner-up.

With a new Sunday-to-Sunday schedule, the Indiana Youth Tour sent 75 incoming high school seniors, representing 29 electric co-ops, eastbound to Washington, D.C., and back, June 11-18. The unforgettable educational adventure included stops at the Flight 93 Memorial, Gettysburg, Arlington National Cemetery, Mount Vernon, the Smithsonian Museums, the Holocaust Museum, monuments and memorials, and other sites; as well as visits with Indiana’s congressional leaders.

CLARITY OF PURPOSE

Although Shane Smith grew up on electric cooperative power lines 15 minutes from the Utilities District of Western Indiana REMC’s office in Bloomfield, he had no concept of what a cooperative was when he interviewed for an internship during his first year of college in 1994.

Smith knew he wanted to be an engineer of some sort and had a knack for that kind of work. And, after graduating, he knew he wanted to stay close to home.

After graduating in 1997, he came back to UDWI REMC’s office and was hired on as its first on-staff engineer.

“It was really a great position,” he said, especially for someone coming right out of college. “The opportunities it provided, the variety of work and the people you worked with — you couldn’t ask for better.”

Smith is now the chief operating officer for the cooperative and looks back on a career that he found rewarding.

“The biggest thing is the mission and the people: serving the

membership, serving the area where I grew up. I find that part of the role very fulfilling. Not being profit-focused really speaks to me,” he said. “Now that I’m in a little bit different role, I’m also helping the people who are coming up in the organization, mentoring them.”

In the mid-2000s, Smith admits he did get kind of a “seven-year itch.” A friend recruited Smith to join his consulting firm, and Smith left the REMC. But a year later, he was back. “I missed the co-op, I missed working for the members and I missed seeing things to completion.”

Coming back, Smith picked up where he left off and was given even more responsibility as UDWI grew in size. Returning to the coop allowed him to benefit from the many opportunities co-ops offer employees. He was able to expand his education and completed his MBA in the chief operating officer’s position he’s had since 2020. “Having those

opportunities, for somebody who loves to learn, is really rewarding.”

And coming back was like coming home to family. “The biggest things are the people that you work with — getting so close to them, they’re like family. That’s part of the job that you don’t really find at a lot of different places. We come together as a family in the hard times — for example, we just had a storm that caused widespread power outages. They’re hard on the employees, and they’re hard on the members. But when you have clarity of purpose and everybody’s coming together to get the job done, it’s a good feeling.”

Shane Smith Chief Operating Officer Utilities District of Western Indiana REMC

Protect your block around the clock.

SUBMIT YOUR FREE ONLINE TICKET TWO FULL WORKING DAYS BEFORE YOU DIG. YA DIG? Follow