Hidden Our side hazards of the ofgrowth space heaters, story, page page 5 29
Boone Power’s
T he
LITTLE LIBRARY that could Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library celebrates 30 years
SAFE, RELIABLE, RESPONSIBLE Celebrating top safety performance and a cooperative approach to growth PAGE 6
of inspiration
PAGE 20
JANUARY 2026
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from the editor
The spark of imagination
VOLUME 75 • NUMBER 7 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340
Growing up, my mom made sure I had plenty of books and read to me every night before I went to bed. When we had our daughter, Gwen, I also wanted to make books a priority for her. My husband and I have been reading to her every night since before she even understood what a book was. Now, she loves being read to at any time of the day. Some of her favorites are the Berenstain Bears books. Gwen is also enrolled in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which we highlight in this month’s feature story. When the idea was suggested to sign her up for the library just before she was born, I was a little hesitant. I mistakenly thought that the Imagination Library was only for kids “in need.” I didn’t want to take a spot away from a child who needed it more. However, after looking into the program, I realized it was intended for all children, regardless of their families’ financial situations. I’m so glad we signed her up. She gets very excited when she receives a new book and wants to read it right away. The books cover a variety of subjects and are made of durable paper, allowing her to read them many times and spend time looking at them on her own. She enjoys “Tad and Dad,” a book about a growing tadpole and his annoyed frog father, and
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 320,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership. The average printed and mailed cost per issue is 54 cents. CONTACT US: 11805 Pennsylvania Street Carmel, IN 46032 317-487-2220 info@indianaconnection.org IndianaConnection.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS: Steve McMichael President Dr. Richard Leeper Vice President Jamey Marcum Secretary/Treasurer John Cassady CEO EDITORIAL STAFF: Britt Davis Editor Mandy Barth Vice President of Communication Lauren Carman Communication Manager
“Ice Cream Face,” about a kid who loves ice cream so much he wants it
Ashley Curry Production and Design Coordinator
for every meal. Both books have unique artwork that she loves to look at.
Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist
I encourage you to sign up the children in your life for this special program, as fostering a love of reading provides lasting benefits through childhood and into adulthood.
On the menu: April: Submit your favorite recipes
Kiley Lipps Graphic Designer ADVERTISING: American MainStreet Publications Cheryl Solomon, local ad representative; 512-441-5200; amp.coop 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.
Britt Davis Editor bdavis@indianaec.org
Amber Knight Creative Manager
you.
using coffee, deadline Feb. 1. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.
Giveaway: Enter to win a coffee gift set. Visit
indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests or send your contact information to the address below. The deadline to enter is Jan. 31.
Three ways to contact us: To send us recipes, photos, letters and entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website indianaconnection.org; email info@indianaconnection.org; or send to Indiana Connection, 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032.
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, 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032. Include key number.
No portion of Indiana Connection may be reproduced without permission of the editor.
JANUARY 2026
3
contents
JANUARY
12
18
county
03 FROM THE EDITOR 05 CO-OP NEWS Energy news and information from your electric cooperative 10 ENERGY Resolve to save money (and energy) in the new year
food
20
29
co-op news
feature story
12 COUNTY Grant County
18 FOOD Create your ideal rice bowl
28 WABASH VALLEY NEWS
14 INDIANA EATS Aspasia Coffee and Bake Shop is making gluten-free dreams come true
20 FEATURE STORY Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library celebrates 30 years of inspiration
29 CO-OP NEWS The hidden hazards of space heaters: A safety and efficiency guide
16 SAFETY Be prepared for winter storms
26 BEST OF INDIANA Nominate your favorite places for our readers’ choice awards
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Indiana Connection
On the cover Boone Power exceeded expectations in numerous categories during a fall 2025 safety audit. For example, our linemen demonstrated the proper technique for using rubber “cover-up” hoses to reduce the risk of line contact. PICTURED: CHAD REVELL, JOURNEYMAN LINEMAN
4 JANUARY 2026
FROM THE co-op news PRESIDENT & CEO
CONTACT US 800-897-7362 WEBSITE boonepower.com EMAIL contactus@boonepower.com OFFICE HOURS
Responsible planning supports reliable power
7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. STREET ADDRESS
HOW BOONE POWER KEEPS MEMBER PRIORITIES FRONT AND CENTER
1207 Indianapolis Ave. Lebanon, IN 46052 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 563 Lebanon, IN 46052 POWER OUTAGES The easiest way to report a power outage is on the SmartHub mobile app. BOARD OF DIRECTORS District 1 — W. Daniel Lawson District 2 — Thomas E. Dull District 3 — Mark Gruninger District 4 — Brian Gott District 5 — Jon Stevens District 6 — Alan D. Cragun District 7 — Bruce Guernsey District 8 — Mark Starkey District 9 — Noel R. Kendall
READ ONLINE! Find a digital flipbook version of the magazine on the SmartHub mobile app or on our website.
Follow us on social media for energy-saving tips and important updates and reminders.
Growth affects every utility, but cooperatives approach it differently. As large projects look to our region, we evaluate their impact carefully to avoid unnecessary risk. Before large developments come to our community, we work with our wholesale partner, Wabash Valley Power Alliance (WPVA), to ensure the power is available, can be delivered reliably, and that financial protections are in place. In every conversation, negotiation, and agreement, we never lose sight of the fact that growth without purpose is not success; it’s risk. As not-for-profit cooperatives, neither Boone Power nor WVPA answers to distant shareholders. Boone County is experiencing significant change, but I want to assure the members of Boone Power that we will not allow growth to negatively impact our commitment to reliability, a fair and reasonable rate structure, or our level of service.
Reliability Our 2024 member satisfaction survey showed that reliability is one of the most important expectations our members have. We take that seriously with proactive programs like vegetation management, copper wire replacements, and regular system inspections. Boone Power members experience 65% less outage time than their neighbors
served by investor-owned utilities. From 2020-2024, our members averaged just 1 hour and 40 minutes without power each year, compared to 4 hours and 43 minutes for nearby investor-owned utilities.* We’re proud that 87% of members are satisfied with our reliability, and we aim to increase that to 90% when we conduct our next survey this spring. While some outages are unavoidable — caused by vehicle accidents, severe weather, transmission-level issues, or even animals damaging equipment — we prepare for every situation. Our linemen live within a required distance of our headquarters and are available 24/7. We’ve implemented technologies that help us isolate issues more quickly and restore power faster. As you will read on page 7, we have a strong safety culture that also enhances reliability.
Fair and reasonable rates As I shared in my column in October, growth helps spread fixed costs across more consumers, which strengthens rate stability for all members. C O N T I N U E D O N P A GE 6 *Statistics based on System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI), which is the average minutes of interruption per customer. It is calculated by dividing the sum of all customer interruption durations (in minutes) by the total number of customers. [Sources: Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission; National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation]
JANUARY 2026
5
co-op news C O NTINUE D FROM PA G E 5
Boone Power’s average cost per kilowatt-hour, based on an average household usage of 1,200 kilowatthours per month, is 17.1 cents. According to the latest U.S. Energy Information Administration data (September 2025), the Indiana average is 17.3 cents, and the East North Central region (which includes Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin) averages 18.7 cents. For several years, we’ve taken a steady approach with small annual adjustments to avoid sudden, steep increases. This helps us responsibly manage rising material and equipment costs while continuing to improve our distribution system so we can fulfill our mission of delivering the most reliable service possible.
Level of service Our new facility, currently under construction, will give us the space we need to support a growing membership. We’re focused on making it easy for our members to do business with us. For example, we’re expanding our in-house call center so that, whenever possible, your call is answered by a Boone Power employee, and as quickly as possible. We do, occasionally, however, have to rely on an off-site vendor — such as during after-hours or widespread outages — to help us answer the phones. We’re also offering more self-service options. Members can manage
Applications open for trip to Washington HIGH SCHOOL JUNIORS A R E E N C O U R A G E D T O A P P LY
Applications for the Indiana Youth Tour to Washington, D.C. are open. Interested high school juniors whose parents/guardians receive service from Boone Power should submit their applications by Feb. 13. The all-expenses-paid trip will take place June 14-21. Don’t miss this chance to explore historic monuments, meet Indiana’s congressional delegation — and make lifelong friends along the way. Visit IndianaYouthTour.org for details and to apply. To learn more about the 2025 experience from two local students, check out the December Indiana Connection magazine at boonepower.com/indiana-connection-magazine.
6 JANUARY 2026
their communication preferences and self-schedule energy advising appointments from SmartHub. As Boone County grows, Boone Power will growth with it — responsibly, reliably, and always with a focus on serving our members.
BILL CONLEY
President & CEO
Calling all K-12 student artists! ANNUAL ELEC TRIC C O-OP ART C ONTEST ENTRIES ARE DUE FEB. 27 Indiana students in grades K–12 are invited to submit artwork for the 2026 Cooperative Student Art Contest! This long-running statewide program celebrates creativity at every grade level. A first-place winner ($100) and an honorable mention ($50) are selected from each grade, and one overall Best of Show winner earns an additional $100. Each grade is assigned a month to illustrate — beginning with January for first graders and wrapping up with December for high school seniors. (Kindergarteners may choose any subject, season, or event.) Winning pieces will be featured in Indiana Connection magazine, which reaches households across the state. Students can review full guidelines, view previous winners, and submit their artwork at indianaconnection.org/for-youth/art-contest.
Employees are equipped with face shields, gloves, and highly visible reflective gear.
co-op news
BOONE POWER EARNS EXCEPTIONAL SAFETY RECOGNITION When Boone Power was reviewed by independent safety experts this past fall, the results were exceptional! Our cooperative exceeded expectations in numerous different categories of safety, a result of a continued focus on safety since the last audit in 2022. These unannounced evaluations, conducted through the Rural Electric Safety Achievement Program (RESAP), provide a comprehensive assessment of the co-op’s facilities, equipment, procedures, and safety culture. They’re designed to affirm what we’re doing well and identify opportunities to enhance safety. Safety has always been a priority, but we’ve continued to enhance our safety program and staffing. For example, we’ve formalized our internal safety committee, made up of employees from across departments. The group meets regularly to identify risks, share learning opportunities, and strengthen our processes. Their work, along with the daily vigilance of every employee, contributed to this year’s outstanding review. “Seeing this level of excellence across so many areas is truly a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our employees,” said Dan Hoch, director of risk management and compliance. “Our goal is simple: everyone goes home safe, and our members receive reliable service every day.”
The improvements behind this accomplishment also benefit our members. GREATER RELIABILITY: Safe crews can work more efficiently with fewer accidents or disruptions, which means fewer outages and faster restoration times. LOWER LONG-TERM COSTS: A strong safety culture reduces equipment damage, lowers workers’ compensation claims, and improves operational efficiency — all of which help keep rates stable.
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS TESTING AND INSPECTIONS Glove and sleeve testing is conducted more frequently than required. Monthly
PROTECTION FOR OUR EMPLOYEES AND OUR COMMUNITY: Many of the improvements directly reduce risks for employees working near energized equipment, handling hazardous materials, or working after hours. When our people stay safe, they stay ready to serve you.
tool inspections exceed
FASTER RESPONSE DURING STORMS AND EMERGENCIES: From daily mapping updates to expanded access to system controls, employees can respond more quickly and accurately to service interruptions.
Newly purchased kits meet
We are proud of this recognition, and in the spirit of continuous improvement, we will continue to refine procedures, invest in equipment, and train employees to ensure your cooperative remains a leader in safety and reliability. After all, when we take care of our people and our system, we’re taking care of you.
industry norms.
VEHICLE AEDS Instead of one per crew, every vehicle is equipped with a high-quality Automated External Defibrillator.
FIRST AID KITS American National Standards Institute standards. They are waterproof and include higher-quality items that can withstand various environmental conditions.
DOCUMENTATION All regulatory documentation is in good order throughout the company. All required documents, such as registrations and DOT inspections, are organized in every truck in the Boone Power fleet. JANUARY 2026
7
co-op news
WeBo Youth Baseball and Softball received Operation Round Up funds to upgrade their field surfaces and fencing.
R EM IND E R :
Director petitions due Jan. 30 As we move into the 2026 board of directors election cycle, a key deadline is approaching: members interested in being placed on the ballot through the petition process must submit completed materials by Jan. 30. Directors will be elected this year to represent Districts 1, 2, and 3. Eligible members who live in these districts may seek a spot on the ballot by completing a candidate questionnaire and gathering the required number of member signatures. District number appears in the top right corner of your billing statement, and all forms are available at boonepower.com/ board-of-directors. Our election process, including the petition option, ensures equal access for members who wish to participate in cooperative governance, whether as a candidate or as a voter. All petitioners and incumbents will have their eligibility verified before the ballot is finalized. Watch for voting information in the coming months!
Operation Round Up funding nears $1.1 million To date, our Operation Round Up program has provided nearly $1.1 million in local grant funding. In 2025, the program’s board of trustees awarded nearly $60,000
Foundation • Sugar Creek Art Center • SullivanMunce Cultural Center
for projects that support our
• Trader's Point Post Prom
community. Grantees were:
• Trader’s Point Educational
• Back to the Fifties Festival • Black Box Theatre • Boone County Historical Society • Boone County Mentoring Partnership
Foundation • WeBo Youth Baseball and Softball • Western Boone Post Prom • Western Boone Educational Foundation
• DirectEmployers Institute
• Zionsville After Prom
• Hussey-Mayfield Memorial
• Zionsville Alliance for
Public Library • Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse & Suicide • Lebanon Educational Foundation • Lebanon Post Prom • Packing Hope • Senior Citizens INC of Lebanon • Sheridan After Prom
8 JANUARY 2026
• Sheridan Educational
Mental Wellness • Zionsville Educational Foundation Operation Round Up, an initiative Boone Power started in 2006 to provide funds for local nonprofit projects. The program, offered by electric co-ops across the country, is funded by members who allow their monthly electric bill payments to be rounded up to the next highest dollar.
energy
RESOLVE TO SAVE MONEY (AND ENERGY) IN THE NEW YEAR A
s you set your goals for the
system can provide more consistent
and cooling systems. This enables
coming year, you can resolve
service to keep you and your home
you to control settings and monitor
to keep more money in your wallet
comfortable.
energy use even when away from
— while saving energy and staying
Save on long-term costs: Most
home. Some appliances even alert
comfortable all year long.
newer appliances and HVAC
you if an issue arises.
Homeowners do not often think
systems are more energy efficient
By planning proactively, you can
about their appliances, such as
than those created over a decade
research the best options available
a water heater or HVAC system,
ago. They will use less energy than
for your replacement. You can visit
until they break. If your HVAC
older equipment, leading to savings
your electric cooperative’s website
system is over 15 years old or
in long-term energy costs. Plus,
to see if any upgrades qualify for
has experienced more frequent
most upgrades typically come with
rebates. You can also contact your
breakdowns, start planning for
a warranty, eliminating those costly
co-op’s energy advisor to begin the
a replacement now, rather than
repairs. With proper maintenance,
conversation.
waiting until it stops working during
it should operate optimally for
extreme weather. Your local electric
years to come. The combination of
cooperative may offer rebates for
improved efficiency and reliability
upgrading to a more energy-efficient
helps save you money over the life
product. You can see multiple
of the equipment.
advantages to your upgrade:
Greater control: Many new
Improved comfort: As appliances
appliances and HVAC systems
and HVAC systems age, they may
now feature internet connectivity,
struggle to maintain the same level
allowing for greater control.
of service as when they were new.
Appliances such as heat pump
Older water heaters may run out of
water heaters may already have
by Andrew Wray
hot water, or heating and cooling
this feature integrated into the device, while Wi-Fi thermostats
Energy Advisor
systems may struggle to get to the desired temperature. A new, modern
allow for remote control of heating
10 JANUARY 2026
Hendricks Power Cooperative
START THE NEW YEAR RIGHT
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county feature
Grant County Grant County has a rich history in motorcycling. Harley-Davidson first earned the nickname “hog” after the winners of the 1920 Cornfield Classic International Motorcycle Race in Marion, Indiana, took their victory lap with their team’s pig mascot. Grant County still celebrates its motorcycling heritage today with the Cornfield Classic, now a vintage motorcycle rally, and the Jonesboro River Rally. Both rallies draw hundreds of bikers each year.
COUNTY FACTS FOUNDED:
REVVING UP TRADITION Founded initially as Harrisburg in 1867, Gas City, Indiana, gained its current name after natural gas was discovered during the Indiana Gas Boom. When the Gas City Land Company was established on March 21, 1892, the small town of about 150 residents adopted the name Photo courtesy of Ducktail Run “Gas City.” Most of its natural gas reserves were largely depleted by the late 1800s due to inefficient extraction. Today, the city is best known for its annual “Ducktail Run,” a car show featuring vehicles from 1972 and earlier.
1831
NAMED FOR: Samuel and Moses Grant, captains who were killed during a battle in 1789 with Native Americans in Switzerland County
POPULATION: 66,674
Photo courtesy of Marion-Grant County Convention and Visitors Bureau
Public Domain
COUNTY SEAT: Marion
INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 27
INDIANA’S HOLLYWOOD REBEL FOLLOW THE GARFIELD TRAIL Marion is the hometown of Jim Davis, who created the comic strip, “Garfield.” To celebrate the lasagna-loving cat, Grant County’s Garfield Trail features 14 fiberglass statues throughout nearby cities. Visitors can dial 765-997-7034 for the trail’s cell phone tour, which features recordings providing more information about each of the 5-foot-tall statues. For example, one of the statues stands in front of Jonesboro City Hall, depicting Garfield wearing a firefighter hat and holding a fire hose beside a hydrant. It’s a tribute to Jonesboro’s role as the place of Grant County’s first fire department.
12 JANUARY 2026
Hollywood icon James Dean was born in Marion in 1931. After his television debut in a Pepsi commercial, Dean quit attending UCLA to pursue acting fulltime, where he starred in three major films — “Rebel Without a Cause,” “East of Eden,” and “Giant” — before his death at the age of 24 in a car accident. Every year, Fairmount, Indiana, hosts a memorial service, festival, and classic car show in his honor. Fans can tour the James Dean Museum, which houses his motorcycles and personal artifacts, or visit the James Dean Gallery featuring a collection of rare memorabilia and collectibles. Art enthusiasts can also admire three cut-out James Dean murals by John Cerney, a renowned mural artist from California. By Nicole Thomas
Marion
COOPERATIVE STUDENT ART CONTEST SUBMISSIONS
NEW BUILDS • ADDITIONS • REMODELS We’re here to help with all your residential construction needs.
The 2026 Cooperative Student Art Contest has
Entries for the Cooperative Student Art Contest are due by Friday, Feb. 27.
begun. Submissions for the contest should be mailed to the Indiana Connection office by Feb. 27. A first-place winner will be selected for each grade, K-12, and will receive $100. One “Best
Circleventerprise@gmail.com 260-228-3440 • Circleventerprise.com
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of Show” will be selected from the first-place
MARKETPLACE
winners and will win an extra $100. Additional artists from each grade will be selected for honorable mention awards and will receive $50.
Our Marketplace offers maximum exposure for your business or organization at a minimal cost.
The contest is open to Indiana public, private, or home-schooled kindergarten through 12th-grade students during the 2025-26 school year. A complete set of rules and required entry forms are available at indianaconnection.org/for-youth/art-contest.
Please contact Cheryl Solomon, 847-749-4875 or cheryl@amp.coop, for other small business advertising opportunities in Indiana Connection.
Order your
2026 CALENDAR TODAY! SEND US A CHECK AND A NOTE WITH YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS. COPIES OF THE COOPERATIVE CALENDAR OF STUDENT ART ARE $7 EACH.
Limited quantities of the 2026 Cooperative Calendar of Student Art are available at participating electric cooperative offices across the state.
The price includes shipping and Indiana sales tax. Make the check payable to “Indiana Electric Cooperatives.” Send your order to Indiana Electric Cooperatives, 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032. 2026 CALENDA PRODUCE D BY
Cover art by
Orders can also be submitted online at goiec.org/calendar.
Jane Olsen, kinderg arten division
winner
R
INDIANA CONNECT
ION FOR INDIANA
STUDENT ART
’S ELECTRIC COOPERA
TIVES
• Bartholomew County REMC • Carroll White REMC • Clark County REMC • Daviess-Martin County REMC • Dubois REC • Fulton County REMC • Harrison REMC • Heartland REMC • Jasper County REMC • Jay County REMC
• JCREMC • Kankakee Valley REMC • Kosciusko REMC • LaGrange County REMC • Marshall County REMC • Newton County REMC • Noble REMC • Orange County REMC • RushShelby Energy • Whitewater Valley REMC • WIN Energy REMC
JANUARY 2026
13
Indiana eats
ASPASIA COFFEE AND BAKE SHOP is making gluten-free dreams come true By Stephanie Bernaba
For anyone navigating life without gluten, the search for tasty treats that don't disappoint seems neverending. Between the dry cookies, crumbly cakes, and gritty bread, many gluten-free options fail to stand up — both figuratively and literally. Eva Tomlinson, who knew this frustration intimately, embarked on a journey to fix that.
SEEING AN OPPORTUNITY When Tomlinson retired from trade compliance in January 2020, the pandemic lockdown gave her plenty of time to bake. The catch? She couldn't eat any of it. "I wanted to figure out how to make gluten-free products because I couldn’t find any gluten-free products that I liked," Tomlinson recalled. After six months of meticulous experimentation, she developed two proprietary flour blends (bread and cake) that transformed both her retirement and her life. Friends who tasted her creations expressed both shock and delight, as they couldn't discern that they were gluten-free — the highest compliment a gluten-free baker can receive. More importantly, her friends and loved ones believed her baked goods were delicious enough to sell.
14 JANUARY 2026
By October 2022, Aspasia Coffee and Bake Shop opened its doors in Zionsville, backed by a separate production kitchen that launched months earlier. Today, the completely dedicated gluten-free facility serves a remarkably diverse menu. Morning pastries, cinnamon rolls, and breakfast casseroles give way to flatbreads, soups, and salads throughout the day. Custom cakes elevate weddings and celebrations, while Hawaiian and dinner rolls ship frozen nationwide.
CREATING FOR HER CUSTOMERS What sets Aspasia apart isn't just her gluten-free guarantee — it's Tomlinson's relentless pursuit of perfection and gracious responsiveness to her customers. "I listen to my customers," Tomlinson explained. "If they say, ‘I really want to try this,’ I give it a whirl. And, many times, it's turned into something that we offer on a regular basis." When someone requests a new flavor or item, she labors intensely to bring their idea to life. Magic bars were added to the permanent menu in this way, as was an impressive croquembouche for a recent wedding. "We're pretty tenacious," Tomlinson said, "so if we set our mind to something, we make it work."
This customer-centered approach extends to accommodating various dietary needs. Approximately 90 percent of Aspasia's offerings are dairy-free in addition to being gluten-free, with fully vegan options also available.
CONTINUED GROWTH The business has flourished, with wholesale accounts now comprising half of her sales. Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis serves Aspasia products through its catering partner. And this month, she will be adding various bagel sandwiches to the menu. Aspasia’s customer base has become so vast that Tomlinson is developing both loyalty and subscription programs. With every perfectly crafted pastry, Tomlinson proves that onceelusive gluten-free dreams can become reality.
ASPASIA COFFEE AND BAKE SHOP aspasiabakeshop.com Aspasia Zionsville
3091 US-421, Zionsville, IN 46077 317-344-2169
Aspasia Carmel PRODUCTION KITCHEN
(Pick up only, no seating) 9830 N. Michigan Rd, Ste C. Carmel, IN 46032 317-663-4538
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safety GENER AT OR S A FET Y: Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning
B E P RE PA RE D
for winter storms
outages, but using them improperly can cause carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Never run a generator,
By Chris Adam
Winter in Indiana often brings heavy
Generators are useful during
grill, camp stove, or any
snow, freezing rain, ice storms and
EMERGENCY KITS FOR HOME AND CAR
fuel-burning device inside
strong winds. These conditions
Having storm kits ready at home and in
not only create travel hazards
basement, or other
your vehicle can make a big difference
but can also cause electrical
enclosed space.
if you’re stuck inside for days or
dangers, warns Indiana’s electric
stranded on the road.
cooperatives.
your home, garage,
• Operate generators and store fuel outdoors, at
At home, stock at least two weeks
“Safety around electricity should be
least 20 feet away from
of supplies, including bottled water,
doors, windows, and
top of mind year-round,” said John
nonperishable food, emergency
garages.
Cassady, CEO of Indiana Electric
blankets, first aid supplies, flashlights,
Cooperatives. “In the winter, snow
a battery-powered or hand-crank radio,
and ice on power lines can cause
extra batteries, and basic toiletries.
them to snap or lead to broken
For your vehicle, pack at least three
CO buildup. Because
days of essentials such as blankets,
CO cannot be seen or
warm clothes, jumper cables, bottled
smelled, it can quickly
water, nonperishable food, sand or cat
cause illness or death.
poles. That’s why people must stay alert to the risks of downed power lines.”
• Opening doors and windows or running fans will not prevent
POWER LINE SAFETY
litter for traction, backup batteries, and
Keep these tips in mind if you
phone chargers.
encounter downed lines:
IF THE POWER GOES OUT
home, on every level, and
• Stay at least 35 feet away —
If an outage occurs, conserve heat by
outside sleeping areas for
about the length of three cars.
keeping doors closed to unused rooms
early warning.
• Never touch the line or anything touching it. • Call 911 immediately and warn others to keep clear. • Always assume the line is live and dangerous.
16 JANUARY 2026
and limiting trips outside. Also remember food safety. Once a refrigerator rises above 40 degrees, perishable foods may become unsafe. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to help food last longer.
• Install CO alarms in central areas of your
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food
Create your ideal rice bowl Unleash your culinary creativity with these tasty rice bowl recipes. Whether you love hearty chicken dishes or prefer colorful vegetarian options, these flavorful combinations are sure to satisfy your cravings and fill you up.
CHICKEN BURRITO RICE BOWL Glenda Ferguson, Paoli
2 cups white rice, uncooked 4 chicken thighs, boneless, skinless, cut into small chunks
½ red onion, chopped into small pieces 2 limes 1 can black beans,
½ tsp paprika
drained and rinsed
½ tsp chili powder
1 large tomato, chopped
2 Tbsp oil
6 oz shredded cheese
2 cups corn, frozen
1 cup shredded lettuce
2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare the rice according to package directions. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder. Cook the chicken in the oil until browned. Add ½ cup of water to the pan. In a small container, add the corn, cilantro, and red onion. Season with salt and pepper. Squeeze the juice from one of the limes onto the corn, then mix it all together. To prepare the rice bowl, spoon rice and black beans on the bottom. Add the chicken over the rice and beans. Top with the corn mixture, tomato, cheese, and lettuce. Season with another lime over the top.
18 JANUARY 2026
FOOD PREPARED BY INDIANA CONNECTION STAFF PHOTOS BY KILEY LIPPS
food
VEGETARIAN POWER BOWL Kristie Bishop, West Lafayette
½ cup brown
¼ cup garbanzo
rice, cooked
beans, canned
¼ cup peas, frozen
¼ cup guacamole
¼ cup mushrooms,
¼ cup salsa
fresh or canned Prepare the rice according to package directions. Heat the cooked rice with the peas, mushrooms, and garbanzo beans until hot. Add guacamole and your favorite salsa. The bowl can be enjoyed with tortilla chips or your favorite other kind of chips.
F O R T H E B U F FA L O C H I C K E N
O T H E R I N G R E DIEN TS
SLOW COOKER BUFFALO CHICKEN RICE BOWLS
1.5 lbs boneless,
1½ cups ranch
Staff submitted
½ cup Frank's Red Hot Sauce
rice, uncooked
¼ cup melted butter
1 cup shredded carrots
1 tsp paprika
½ cup blue
skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp garlic powder
1 cup brown or white
cheese crumbles
½ tsp salt To cook the chicken, place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the buffalo sauce, melted butter, and spices on top. Toss everything gently to coat the chicken. Cook on low for 6-7 hours, or high for 2-3 hours. Shred and keep set to warm until ready to serve. Cook the rice according to the package directions. To assemble the bowls, add some rice, shredded buffalo chicken, and carrots to a bowl. Drizzle with the ranch dressing and top with blue cheese crumbles.
JANUARY 2026
19
One of the books available through the program was written by Dolly Parton herself. “A Coat of Many Colors” is based off of her popular song.
T he
LITTLE LIBRARY that could Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library celebrates 30 years of inspiration
Photos courtesy of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
By Julie Young
S
he is one of the most revered and celebrated multi-hyphenates of
all time. In addition to being a global music icon and an award-winning singer/songwriter with over 3,000 compositions in her catalog, she is also an accomplished actress, best-selling author, successful businesswoman, and the largest employer in Sevier County, Tennessee. But for millions of children, Dolly Parton is simply “The Book Lady,” a title she wears with pride.
20 JANUARY 2026
The library offers a bilingual program with English and Spanish books in 21 states.
Launched in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library works to spark a love of reading in children everywhere by gifting a high-quality, ageappropriate book free of charge each month from birth to age five. What began as a local program for a few hundred children in her home county became a national effort in 2000 and, since then, has expanded into an international initiative that delivers more than 3 million books each month to children across the United States, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Since its inception, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has gifted over 300 million books worldwide and has no plans of slowing down any time soon. “You can never get enough books into the hands of enough children,” Parton said.
ONCE UPON A TIME As most fans of her music know, Parton grew up in a one-room cabin on a rural ridge in the Great Smoky Mountains near the town of Sevierville. While her mother, Avie Lee (née) Owens, took care of the home and cared for the children, her
Although she was a big dreamer with
However, it was her deep admiration
musical ambitions at a young age,
for her father, combined with an
Parton knew that her key to success
awareness of the doors that literacy
was staying in school and earning her
could open, that inspired the “Jolene”
diploma. She was proud to be the first
singer to create Dolly Parton’s
member of her family to graduate from
Imagination Library. It has evolved
high school. One day later, she moved
into the flagship program of The
to Nashville to start her music career,
Dollywood Foundation and has been
and the rest, as they say, is history.
recognized for improving literacy
father, Robert Lee Parton Sr., worked
After achieving unparalleled
as a sharecropper, tobacco farmer,
success in music and film, Parton
and occasional construction worker
sought ways to give back to others.
to keep his family clothed and fed.
She established The Dollywood
Despite never learning how to read or
Foundation in 1988 to inspire children
write, Parton described her father as
in her home county to achieve
one of the smartest men she had ever
educational success. She created
met and credited him with instilling
the Buddy Program, which offered a
in his children a sense of hard work,
$500 incentive to seventh and eighth-
humility, and pride. However, she also
grade students who graduated from
knew that his inability to read took an
high school. The program was so
emotional toll on him and crippled him
successful that it reduced the dropout
from reaching his full potential in life.
rate from 35 to 6%.
habits, kindergarten readiness, and supporting grade-level reading by the third grade. From its humble beginnings, the Imagination Library has experienced exponential growth over the past three decades. In the U.S. alone, the library reaches one in seven children under the age of five, which is not only an achievement that reflects remarkable growth, but also showcases the power of a simple, lifechanging gift: a book. continued on page 22
JANUARY 2026
21
The library offers a variety of books to children from birth to 5 years old.
known and respected program allowed her to combine many of her passions — early literacy, philanthropy, and communitybuilding partnerships — in the best possible way. “I have been promoting literacy my entire career, and a love of books and reading offers the foundation for literacy skills that set children up for future success,” she said. “Encouraging increased interaction
continued from page 21 “Before he passed away, my Daddy told me that the Imagination Library was probably the most important thing I had ever done,” Parton said. “And that’s saying a lot!”
provide additional support to
with children and their caregivers
expand access. They help fund and
around books and reading strengthens
coordinate statewide efforts while
their bond and promotes positive
supporting volunteers and staff to
brain development.”
ensure that all children — regardless
Although the Imagination Library has
of location — can benefit from free reading materials.
been available in Indiana for over 20 years, it has only been a statewide
SUPPORTING CHARACTERS
“The average cost of the program per
program since August 2023. Before
Naturally, Parton doesn’t do it
child, per month is $2.60 or around
that time, only 54 counties participated
alone. Although The Dollywood
$31 per child per year. In states
in the program, with many of these
Foundation covers the overhead and
where there is a state match, the
counties having limited coverage.
administration expenses, coordinates
cost decreases to $1.30 per child per
Today, every county in the state has
the Blue Ribbon Book Selection,
month to around $15 for the whole
an Imagination Library program, and
provides the secure online database,
year,” said Katie Mullins, community
thanks to the work of local and state
and manages ordering and fulfillment,
engagement coordinator for Dolly
partners, enrollment has doubled
the real heroes of Dolly Parton’s
Parton’s Imagination Library
over the past two years from 70,000
Imagination Library are the thousands
of Indiana.
to 138,000. To date, nearly 2.9
of local partners and organizations that have taken her dream and made it their own. Local program partners cover the wholesale cost of the books, as well as the postage to mail them, while also promoting the program and enrolling children in their communities. Statewide partners (where applicable)
22 JANUARY 2026
Mullins joined Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in 2023, bringing an extensive background in public
million books have been mailed to Hoosier children of all socioeconomic backgrounds.
libraries and a firm belief that every
Mullins said there is often a
child should grow up in a home
misconception about who is eligible to
filled with books. She said that the
take part in Dolly Parton’s Imagination
opportunity to be part of such a well-
Library, and the answer is, everyone!
The universality of the program is deeply personal to Parton. As a child, she knew her family struggled to make ends meet, but she didn’t realize how poor they were until they began receiving handouts from others. Because of that experience, Parton decided that the Imagination Library would be for every child and not merely for those “in need.” “After 30 years, we’ve seen the power of that decision. A universal program means that more books reach more children overall and, importantly, even more books find their way into the hands of children who need them the most,” Mullins said.
Give a child the gift of books Want to sign up the child in your life for the Imagination Library? Visit imaginationlibrary.com/check-availability to determine if the program is available in your area.
continued on page 24
JANUARY 2026
23
Parton reads to a group of children at the Library of Congress in 2018.
continued from page 23
chant, was one of Parton’s favorites as
respected early childhood experts.
a child, and she said she saw herself
Over the course of a three-day review,
in the title character. Each subsequent
the committee evaluates each title
book is thoughtfully selected through
and selects those that best represent
a carefully developed process, with
outstanding children’s literature.
age appropriateness as the guiding
Books with political, overtly religious,
principle. Selections also reflect the
or polarizing themes are excluded
“They’ve all shared the experience
values of The Dollywood Foundation
to keep the focus on the mission:
of reading the same books, creating
and Parton herself — love, respect,
to inspire a love of reading. Parton
a sense of connection and leveling
appreciation, kindness, and empathy.
herself is the author of two books in
the playing field for every child,”
Braille and audio Imagination Library
the Library: “I Am a Rainbow”, which
Mullins said.
books are also available through a
discusses the various moods a child
partnership with the American Printing
experiences, and “Coat of Many
House for the Blind (APH).
Colors,” a literary version of her hit
Another beautiful outcome is that children, regardless of their socioeconomic status, start kindergarten on a more level playing field.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT BOOKS When children sign up for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the first book they receive is “The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper. The story of a little train’s optimism and hard work, embodied in its “I think I can”
24 JANUARY 2026
According to Mullins, each year, the library’s exclusive publisher, Penguin Random House, presents new children’s titles to the book selection committee, a group of highly
song about bullying and acceptance.
A SUCCESS BY ANY MEASURE Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been the recipient of numerous awards and accolades, including
By the numbers the 2000 Honors Award from
time “The Book Lady” sends out
the Association of American
another story. Some parents
Publishers and the 2012 Best
cherish the smile and squeal that
Practices Award from the Library
accompany each new arrival,
of Congress. Although her own
while others note how their child’s
children were older when Dolly
confidence grows with every story.
Parton’s Imagination Library
1995 The year the Imagination Library was founded
OVER 300 MILLION
Parton understands that parents
was launched in her county, Mullins has a niece and nephew in Tippecanoe County who are eager participants in the program.
The number of books gifted worldwide
and caregivers are a child’s first
since the library’s inception
teacher, and they set the course
OVER 138,000
for developing their child’s love of books and reading. She also
“My niece stops everything when
knows that reading to a child from
it is time to get her new book from
birth to age five not only promotes
the mailbox, and immediately her
their future reading ability, but also
parents have to read it to her,”
their academic success.
Mullins said. “Then at bedtime, she eagerly snuggles in to once again read her new book.”
The number of Hoosier children enrolled in the program
NEARLY 2.9 MILLION The number of books gifted to
“The first step is always the
Hoosier children so far
hardest,” Parton said, “but if you can read, you can teach yourself
It’s an experience that is replayed
$2.60
anything!”
The cost of the program for each
countless households every
child per year
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Best of Indiana
NOMINATION FORM To celebrate the uniqueness of Indiana, please exclude national chains from your responses. Don’t forget to include the name of the town in which each answer is located. Feel free to tell us why you
Indiana Connection Readers’ Choice Awards
Best of
a n a i Ind
made your nomination. Use an additional piece of paper if needed.
BED AND BREAKFAST/COUNTRY INN:
BREWERY:
CAMPGROUND:
COMMUNITY FESTIVAL:
Indiana Connection wants to recognize some of our readers’ favorite places in
LIVE THEATER:
an upcoming “Best of Indiana” feature. To nominate your favorites, fill out the form below and mail it to Indiana
MUSEUM:
Connection at 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032. You can also submit your nominations online at
PLACE TO TAKE THE KIDS:
indianaconnection.org/2026-best-ofindiana-awards. Nomination forms are due by
RESTAURANT:
March 1. Our readers will vote on the top-nominated places in future issues. Send any questions to Editor Britt Davis at bdavis@indianaec.org. Help
TENDERLOIN SANDWICH (NAME THE SPECIFIC PLACE):
us showcase some of the places that make the Hoosier State great!
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Wabash Valley Power news
POWERING COMMUNITIES with SMART SOLUTIONS As we step into 2026, I’ve been
That means savings. By avoiding
reflecting on the priorities that drive
expensive peak times, we reduce
our work. Each year brings its own
costs for our members. It also helps
challenges and opportunities, but
stabilize prices overall. Just like
one thing remains constant: our
any other market, electricity follows
commitment to providing affordable,
supply and demand. When demand
reliable electricity to the communities
soars, so can prices. By dispatching
we serve.
batteries during those times,
That guides everything we do at Wabash Valley Power Alliance.
Wabash and our member co-ops can save money.
Every day, I’m focused on how
But affordability is only half the story.
we can strengthen service for our
These batteries also boost reliability.
member communities. It’s a message
Imagine a frigid winter storm or a
I reinforce with my team, and it’s
sweltering summer afternoon. Stored
at the core of our new Substation
energy can be dispatched exactly
Battery Program.
when it is needed most. That not
This initiative brings state-of-the-art energy storage to several of our
only keeps power flowing but can strengthen the system.
member substations. These are
The Substation Battery Program
not massive batteries you will see
may be a quiet addition to your local
towering over the landscape. In fact,
co-op, but its impact will be powerful.
most people won’t even notice them.
It is one more way we’re living out
But the difference they can make for
our mission: keeping your electricity
your co-op is significant.
affordable, reliable, and ready for
Here is how it works: the batteries
2026 and beyond!
will be installed behind the meter,
Happy New Year,
keeping stored energy right in the
Jeff Conrad President and CEO Wabash Valley Power Alliance
community. They will charge when demand and costs are low, then discharge when demand and costs spike.
28 JANUARY 2026
co-op news
THE HIDDEN HAZARDS OF SPACE HEATERS:
By Rasha Aly
A SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY GUIDE By Rasha Aly
I
Only use space heaters in an emergency situation, such as an extended power outage, as they pose a safety risk and drive up your energy bill.
t’s a common paradox: the very
space heaters were involved in
However, in those emergency
appliance many people rely on
an average of 1,600 fires per year
situations, Hendricks said there
for comfort and warmth can pose a
from 2019 to 2021. This resulted in
are steps families can take to
danger and drive up energy bills.
an average of 70 deaths and 160
ensure they’re using heaters safely.
injuries yearly.
For instance, he explained users
DANGEROUS REA LIT Y
shouldn’t plug a portable heater into
A space heater is a primary risk
E S S E N T IA L
factor for household disasters.
D O S A N D DON 'TS
According to the National Fire
Some users rely on space
Protection Association, heating
heaters as a primary heat
equipment is one of the leading
source, but according to
causes of home fire deaths.
Lebanon Fire Department Deputy
Between 2020 and 2024, space
Chief of Administration Jason
heaters and heating stoves were
Hendricks, they are designed for
Most outlets have 15 amps of
responsible for the largest share
emergencies only.
electricity, Hendricks said, while most
of losses caused by heating equipment, accounting for approximately 50% of fires.
“That’s not the way they’re being used,” Hendricks said, noting that it’s common for families to use extra
The Consumer Product Safety
heaters even when the home’s main
Commission estimates that electric
heating system works well.
the same circuit as other devices, because that could overload the circuit. Too much electrical current can damage appliances, trip circuit breakers (shutting off power), and create a serious fire hazard.
electrical heaters run on 12 amps. Having multiple devices on one circuit can easily exceed 15 amps, causing the circuit to overload. C ON T I N U E D ON PAG E 3 0 JANUARY 2026
29
co-op news C ON TIN UED FROM PAGE 2 9
Other tips to follow to prevent
CO S T A N D E N E RGY
spike in your energy use to keep
fires and accidents include:
E F F ICIENC Y
your bills in check.
• MAINTAIN A 3-FOOT CLEAR ZONE: Keep all materials at least three feet away from portable heaters. • TURN OFF WHEN UNATTENDED: Turn heaters off whenever you leave the room or go to sleep. • LOOK FOR SAFETY FEATURES: Use only newer
It’s also important to note that while many people depend on space heaters, they aren’t very energy efficient, said Matt Walters, Boone Power’s director of member engagement. Walters said that using a space heater for an hour uses about 1.5 kilowatt-hours. To illustrate the impact, if you used a space heater eight hours a day for a month,
Boone Power recommends the following tips for improving your home’s efficiency this winter — keeping heat inside and cold air outside: • CHECK FOR COLD AIR DRAFTS: Ensure all windows and exterior doors are tightly sealed. Use caulking to keep drafts out.
space heaters with safety
you would consume 360 kilowatt-
• CHECK AIR FILTERS: Proper
features built in, as older
hours, adding an extra $44 to your
maintenance of your HVAC
models often lack critical
electric bill.
system improves its efficiency.
safeguards. • KEEP CHILDREN AND PETS AWAY: To prevent burns and
Echoing the advice of the Lebanon Fire Department, Walters said it’s best to save space heaters for
tipping accidents, keep children
emergencies. You can turn your
and pets away from
thermostat down a few degrees,
the heaters.
wear an extra layer, and reduce a Check your HVAC system manufacturer’s instructions for how often to change air filters and to ensure you’re using the correct size of filter.
Check the manufacturer’s instructions for how often to change the filters and to ensure you’re using the correct size (thickness) of filter. Additionally, a MERV rating of 8 or above is a good rule of thumb. • MONITOR THERMOSTAT SETTINGS: When the temperature outside goes below freezing, keep a close eye on your thermostat to ensure it doesn’t get stuck on the auxiliary or emergency setting. This can put your system in overdrive and lead to higher electric bills. • SCHEDULE AN ENERGY EVALUATION: If you want to learn more about how to be more efficient, contact Boone Power for a free energy evaluation. Call us at 800-897-7362 or schedule an appointment via the SmartHub app or at boonepower.com/ energy-advisor-services.
30 JANUARY 2026
Indiana’s electric cooperatives
WORKING FOR YOU Connect. Innovate. Build. Invest.