Clark County REMC — December 2021 Indiana Connection

Capital credits coming to your mailbox!

Clark County REMC’s

Holiday

Heritage Readers delight in sharing their Christmas customs

PAGES

19–22

DECEMBER 2021

from the editor VOLUME 71 • NUMBER 6 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340

COOKIE CUTTER CHRISTMAS Though our December social calendars are usually too packed to include yet another event, one invite that inevitably warrants a “count me in” RSVP is a holiday cookie exchange.

I like to think of it as party on steroids (or should that be sprinkles?). Sure, it’s a fun social event, a time for friends to pause during the holiday madness to enjoy a cup of coffee or cocoa, some conversation, and some cookies. But it also allows us to conserve valuable time which is so important during a busy time of year. Instead of having to eke out time to bake and decorate multiple batches of different Christmas cookies, we only need to prepare one batch to share at the cookie exchange. And when we come home, voila! We’ve amassed a variety of cookies with no additional dirty mixing bowls or baking sheets to clean up!

While some cookie exchange guests admittedly sneak store-bought treats to the sharing table (No judgment here! I like a good sugar cookie no matter who bakes it!), I prefer pulling out my favorite shortbread recipe and assortment of cookie cutters, and then indulging in an activity I so rarely have time to enjoy the rest of the year.

Pristinely piped and frosted cookies are not my forte, but I’ve found that stirring red and green jimmies or nonpareils into the dough before rolling it out is a great way to give your cookies a festive feel with little effort.

I hope you’re able to take some time this holiday season to make cookies and share them with friends. To help you get started, enter to win my Christmas cookie baker’s prize pack featuring a baking sheet, cooling rack, spatula, cookie cutters, a printed rolling pin and kitchen towels by Dec 20 (see below for entry details). If you’d like the recipe for my favorite shortbread cookies (which I’ll be making for the holidays) send me an email at the address below and I’ll send it to you.

Wishing you a sweet Christmas season of sharing!

EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@indianaec.org

On the menu: April issue: Recipes using baking powder,

deadline Feb. 1. June issue: Summer salads, deadline April 1. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Giveaways: Enter to win Emily’s Christmas cookie baker’s prize pack by Dec. 20. For details and to enter, visit indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests.

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.

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 304,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership.

CONTACT US: 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600 Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606 317-487-2220 info@indianaconnection.org IndianaConnection.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS: Walter Hunter President Randy Kleaving Vice President Steve McMichael Secretary/Treasurer John Gasstrom CEO EDITORIAL STAFF: Emily Schilling Editor Richard George Biever Senior Editor Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist Ellie Schuler Senior Digital and Layout Design Specialist Taylor Maranion Senior Brand and Visual Design Specialist Lauren Carman Communication Coordinator 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 safe‑keeping or return of unsolicited material.

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

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

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

Include key number.

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

DECEMBER 2021

3

contents

DECEMBER

10

16

energy

03 FROM THE EDITOR 05 CO-OP NEWS Energy news and information from your electric cooperative.

10 ENERGY Make sure ‘vampires’ aren’t part of your holiday décor.

12 INSIGHTS

19

food

25

cover story

grassroots

14 COUNTY OF THE MONTH Spotlighting Dearborn County.

18 DIY When one tree is not enough.

24 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS

15 INDIANA EATS

19 COVER STORY

Why politics matter to cooperatives.

One Ten Craft Meatery: Creativity in the kitchen.

16 FOOD Choco-licious: Holidayperfect sweet treats.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Indiana Connection

Holiday Heritage: Readers share a sampler of Christmas customs 23 SAFETY Heed the dangers of backup generators.

25 GRASSROOTS

26 PROFILE Leslie Beard: Better things come to those who wait.

On the cover Barney Blilie, left, and Nick Stanger decorate Christmas cookies their wives baked as part of a long-standing “Cookie Day” tradition the two Steuben County couples share with each other. The day also includes eating the cookies with milk and watching the movie “Prancer.” Readers from all over Indiana shared their holiday traditions with us — and you.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY SANDY BLILIE

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DECEMBER 2021

CONTACT US Office: 812-246-3316 / 800-462-6988 Outages: 866-480-REMC Fax: 812-246-3947 To pay your bill by phone or inquire about your account: 877-484-4042 EMAIL info@clarkremc.coop WEBSITE ClarkREMC.coop OFFICE HOURS 7 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday STREET ADDRESS 7810 State Road 60, Sellersburg, IN 47172 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 411, Sellersburg, IN 47172 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Paul Graf, President Candy Meyer, Vice President John Biesel, Secretary/Treasurer Joe Basham Steve Dieterlen

Ways to lend a helping hand The days are getting shorter and the weather is getting colder, but there are still plenty of reasons for joy as we bring 2021 to a close.

While the holidays can be difficult for some and stressful for all, they also bring opportunities to share good things with one another. At Clark County REMC, we have several ways to partner with you, our memberowners, to do exactly that.

Mark Huber Jeff Myers UPCOMING BOARD MEETINGS Dec. 7 at 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 4 at 5:30 p.m.

Feb. 1 at 1:30 p.m.

March 8 at 5:30 p.m.

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/ ClarkCountyREMC Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/ClarkCountyREMC Follow us on Instagram instagram.com/ClarkCoREMC Follow us on LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/clarkcounty-remc

Our annual canned food drive is well underway. Stop by before the end of the month and exchange six canned or non-perishable food items for a free energy kit. Last year, members like you donated more than 10,000 pounds of food to local food pantries!

It makes me so proud to be part of a generous, caring community.

Our Lend A Hand program is also going strong. Donations are distributed to other Clark County REMC members who are experiencing financial difficulties. Every donation you make is doubled by your board of directors, up to $10,000 for the year, and thousands of dollars have already been given to families in 2021. If you need assistance or know of someone who could use a helping hand, contact your township trustee for information on how to apply.

In a year when so much of life is filled with uncertainty, knowing that your community is there for you is priceless. On behalf of the board of directors and employees of Clark County REMC, I would like to wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday season.

DAVID A. VINCE General Manager

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! The Clark County REMC office will be closed Dec. 23, 24 and 31.

NOW AVAILABLE FOR PICKUP: Calendars, Farmers’ Almanacs, and Festival Guides are now available for pick up during business hours.

DECEMBER 2021

5

You give ... we give back!

Exchange six canned or non-perishable food items for a free energy kit valued at $25

Energy kit includes

The canned food items will be distributed to area food pantries. The need is great!

• This exchange is for Clark County REMC members only during the months of October, November and December. One exchange per member while supplies last.

• Energy kits are limited to the first 500 members who donate food items.

WATER HEATER PROGRAM ENDS DEC. 21 For more than 30 years, REMC members have been able to go through their local electric co-op to purchase a water heaters and have them installed at a great price from a great local company. Beginning next month, we will no longer sell or install water heaters for REMC members. We know this is a big change from what we’ve done in the past, and appreciate all of the support you have given us in making this program a success. However, as times change, we must adapt and meet the needs of today’s members.

With the emergence of solar power, electric vehicles and battery storage, the energy landscape of 2022 is vastly different than it was just five years ago, let alone in the 1990s. To face these changes and prepare for the future, we must make room for new programs and offerings.

Don’t forget that any REMC member can still receive a $500 rebate for purchasing a heat-pump/hybrid water heater. See clarkremc.coop/ waterheaters for more details.

Thank you for your understanding. We are committed to being your trusted energy partner for generations to come.

6

DECEMBER 2021

Time is Running Out for 2021 Rebates HVAC, Hybrid Water Heaters, Electric Lawn Equipment, and HVAC Tune-Up Rebates: • If you installed a qualifying heat pump, geothermal unit or heat pump hybrid water heater in 2021, you may be eligible for a rebate.

• If you purchased electric lawn equipment or tuned up your HVAC this year you may be eligible for a rebate.

Hurry! The deadline to apply is Dec. 15. All rebate forms must be received by this date. For more information and how to apply, visit clarkremc.coop/rebates.

TAKING NOMINATIONS DID YOU KNOW YOUR ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, CCREMC, IS A NOT-FOR-PROFIT OWNED BY THOSE IT SERVES?

Rate Increase February 2022 At Clark County REMC, we work hard to minimize increases in our electric rates. While virtually all aspects of today’s cost of living continue to rise, we pride ourselves on avoiding routine

Join a dynamic organization by

(including an incumbent director)

price adjustments. We believe

serving on the Clark County REMC

must be nominated by petition.

that reliable electric service at a

board of directors. Deadline for

The petition may only be signed by

reasonable price is something our

petitions is Jan. 3, 2022, at 4 p.m.

members of Clark County REMC.

members should be able to count

The board of directors for Clark

If you want to be part of a company

County REMC is the legal body

with commitment to community

Even with our continuing efforts

which both the membership and

and the people who live here,

to prevent a change in your

the government hold accountable

consider serving on the REMC

electric rates, it is necessary for

for the actions of the organization.

board of directors. This is a great

us to implement a modest rate

The men and women elected to

way to serve in an organization

increase of approximately 4.2%

serve are dedicated people who

that cares about its neighbors

which will be effective with the

have the interests of all members of

and works to make a positive

February 2022 bill statements.

the organization at heart.

contribution in so many ways.

This rate increase considers all

In 2022, REMC members will elect

All candidate forms and petitions

board members representing

will be processed electronically.

Districts 1 and 2.

Any eligible person who wishes

on.

the cost pressures the REMC has experienced in its operations.

REMC completed a cost-of-

Visit clarkremc.coop/directors for

service study this year and

details and to apply.

found it was necessary for us to

to run for the board of directors

increase our electric rates. The last general rate increase was in May 2017.

DISTRICT 1 District 1 consists of Vienna, Lexington, and Johnson townships in Scott County; Saluda township in Jefferson County; and Washington, Bethlehem and Owen townships in Clark County.

DISTRICT 2 District 2 consists of Oregon and Charlestown townships in Clark County.

Petitions for election and other board information are available online at clarkremc.coop/directors Completed petitions and biographical information must be returned to the REMC no later than Jan. 3, 2022, at 4 p.m.

We will continue to provide more information to you in the coming months. Please watch our publications for more details. In the meantime, we know you will have questions and concerns, and we encourage you to contact our office. Thank you for your understanding and support. We look forward to serving your needs for a very long time.

DECEMBER 2021

7

Congratulations!

The following nine employees are celebrating milestone anniversaries at the REMC. We thank them for their commitment to providing you with the best service possible.

ERIC MELTON

THERA DESMOND

5 YEARS OF SERVICE

15 YEARS OF SERVICE

JAMIE LUNDY

jerry applegate

5 YEARS OF SERVICE

15 YEARS OF SERVICE

HEATHER MEAGHER

pam dennis

5 YEARS OF SERVICE

25 YEARS OF SERVICE

BO SIMPSON

david vince

10 YEARS OF SERVICE

35 YEARS OF SERVICE

KEVIN PORTER 10 YEARS OF SERVICE

WILLIS RECEIVES EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONDER CERTIFICATION We are proud to announce that Clay Willis, journeyman lineman, has received certification to be an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR). Willis now has the knowledge and skills necessary to provide immediate lifesaving interventions. He also has the training to provide assistance to higher-level personnel at the scene of emergencies and during transport. Emergency Medical Responders are a vital part of the comprehensive EMS response. Congratulations to Clay! We are proud to have him on our team.

8

DECEMBER 2021

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Make sure ‘vampires’ aren’t part of your holiday decor

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10

DECEMBER 2021

MAKE SURE YOUR OUTDOOR LIGHTS ARE PROPERLY RATED.

co-op for even more

on at times when people can enjoy them. Automatic timers can schedule your holiday decorations so that they are enjoyed when you want them – and not cost you money the rest of the time. You can even purchase an outdoor-rated

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Contact your local electric

by Darrell

Marks

Energy Services Specialist Kankakee Valley REMC

ADVERTISEMENT

insights

Ready, set, draw Christmas break is coming up! It’s the perfect time for students to pull out their art supplies and begin working on their entries for next year’s Cooperative Calendar of Student Art contest.

The deadline to submit artwork to illustrate the 25th annual student art calendar is March 18, 2022. First place winners in grade divisions kindergarten through grade 12 will receive $200 each. Their winning artworks will illustrate the calendar’s cover and the 12 months of the year. One “artist of the year” will also be selected and will earn an additional $100. In addition, the judges will select honorable mention winners whose artwork will also appear in the calendar. They will

ORDER YOUR 2022 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. Price includes shipping and

receive $75 each.

Indiana sales tax. Make

The contest is open to Indiana public, private or home-schooled

Electric Cooperatives.” Send

students. They must be in grades kindergarten through 12th grade

a note and check to Indiana

during the 2021-22 school year. A complete set of rules and required

Connection Calendar; 8888

check payable to “Indiana

entry forms are available at indianaconnection.org/for-youth/artcontest.

Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600; Indianapolis, IN 46240.

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12

DECEMBER 2021

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county feature

Dearborn County Like most all Indiana counties that border the Ohio River, Dearborn County’s earliest history and economy has been based along that major waterway. The county’s two largest towns, Lawrenceburg, the county seat, and Aurora are the first Hoosier towns travelers heading down river from nearby Cincinnati come to.

Aurora is home to Hillforest Victorian House Museum, a stately 1855 Italian Renaissance mansion just blocks from the river and downtown historic district. The mansion was built by Thomas Gaff, an Aurora industrialist and financier. His family would call it home from 1855 to 1926. The mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1992.

Gaff and his brother, James, also established a distillery and brewing company, and were involved in a number of other businesses, including farming, Nevada silver mines, a Cincinnati jewelry store, foundry and machine works, turnpike and canal construction, and two Louisiana plantations.

Their mill in Columbus, Indiana, produced “Cerealine,” which was touted as the first ready-made cereal in the world.

With their heavy reliance on the Ohio River for shipping, the Gaff brothers also owned a fleet of steamboats that they used to transport their distillery and brewery products.

Besides their many business ventures, the Gaff brothers were heavily involved in civic affairs.

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DECEMBER 2021

Gaff also helped to organize Aurora’s school system, and made numerous religious and charitable contributions.

Gaff died in 1884, but his family continued living in the mansion until 1926. It was sold to a local furniture manufacturer and then became the clubhouse for the local Veterans of Foreign Wars from the late 1940s to the mid 1950s. In late 1955, a group of local residents, fearing the home would fall into disrepair and be torn down, banded together to purchase the mansion. They formed the Hillforest Historical Foundation as a nonprofit organization dedicated to the home’s restoration and preservation. Hillforest has been open to the public as a historic property museum since 1956.

Taking off on a “hill-forest” theme of another kind, Dearborn County also offers another attraction … up in those hills and forests away from the river. That’s the Perfect North Slopes, an alpine skiing resort, that is a popular destination for skiers from the tri-states of Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky this time of year.

Perfect North was formed by the Perfect Family and others in 1980. Today, it offers 23 trails of varying difficulty with all the conveniences of ski resorts found in areas more synonymous with the sport.

Perfect North was where notable Olympic freestyle skier Nick Goepper got his start. Growing up about 15 minutes from the slopes, Goepper used to spend up to 12

PHO TO CO URTESY O F PERFECT NO RTH SLO PES

hours a day training at Perfect North before beginning his track to stardom. The two-time Olympic medalist is now readying himself for the Winter Olympics in China this coming February.

County Facts FOUNDED: 1803 NAMED FOR: Henry Dearborn, an American military officer during the Revolutionary War and War of 1812 and served as Secretary of War under President Thomas Jefferson.

POPULATION: 49,568 (2018 estimate) COUNTY SEAT: Lafayette INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 15 For more information: HillForest.org PerfectNorth.com

CREATIVITY IN THE KITCHEN

Indiana eats delights like a duck egg crème brulee featuring lemon custard, lavender shortbread and candied lemon zest.

Among One Ten’s fans is Rep. Craig Snow, a Warsaw resident who loves the restaurant’s atmosphere and food.

“Jason has been very creative over the years and especially during the pandemic.” That creativity extends to One Ten’s extensive and innovative cocktail menu which is thoughtfully divided into categories like signature, bright, bubbly, sour and spiritous.

Visit this Kosciusko County gem for dinner Wednesdays through Saturdays

SHORT RIBS: One of One Ten Meatery’s specialties is its slow braised short ribs. They are served atop smoked mashed potatoes and covered with mushroom demi glace. Swiss chard casserole is a perfect accompaniment.

from 5:30-8:30 p.m. You can also order food items online for pickup or have One Ten cater an event for you either at a location of your choice or at The Vic,

Serving great food and ensuring

fresh and in season. The menu is

One Ten’s event venue.

customers have a positive dining

varied and unique — with offerings like

One Ten patrons should be aware that

experience are hallmarks of a top-notch

street corn and poutine. Of course, with

tipping wait staff is not allowed. The

restaurant. But One Ten Craft Meatery

“meatery” in its name, expect savory

restaurant builds the tip into the price of

in downtown Warsaw goes above and

selections like wild boar tenderloin,

the food to ensure those waiting on you

beyond through its mission of creating

braised short ribs and steak cuts like

are paid competitive wages and receive

a strong community by investing in

ribeye, Denver, flat iron and filet. One

a guaranteed income.

people. Owner Jason Brown notes, “If

Ten also serves the most sought-after

you develop people, your community is

steak — Wagyu beef. Bacon lovers

a better place.” As well, he and his staff

(and who isn’t a bacon fan?) must try

donate to nonprofits, provide leftover

the Flight of Bacon appetizer with a

food to a local homeless shelter and

choice of three types of bacon served

recycle as much as possible to reduce

with creamed honey, duck-fat fried

their carbon footprint.

buttermilk biscuits, pork rinds and

Ingredients used at One Ten are locally sourced from in and around Indiana,

blackberry goat cheese.

ONE TEN CRAFT MEATERY 110 N. BUFFALO ST. WARSAW, INDIANA 574-267-7007

110craftmeatery.com

The dessert menu features delectable

ABOUT STATE REP. CRAIG SNOW: Rep. Craig Snow was elected to represent District 18 (which includes Wabash County and portions of Grant, Kosciusko and Miami counties) in 2020. He serves on the Agriculture and Rural Development; Elections and Apportionment; and Family, Children and Human Affairs committees. Snow is the board chair of Silveus Insurance Group and serves as CEO of Cedar Holdings Inc.

FIVE STATES: Indiana and the four states surrounding it not only serve as One Ten Meatery wall decor: The restaurant supports farmers and artisans in each of those states through its farmto-table philosophy.

DECEMBER 2021

15

food

CORRECTION:

CHOCOLATE BROWNIE CAKE

There was an error in the Dairy Free “Pumpkin” Pie recipe in the November issue.

The first ingredient in the ingredient listing — 4 eggs — was mistakenly left out. We apologize for the error. Check out the corrected recipe at www.indianaconnection.org.

Nancy Moore, Kendallville, Indiana

Heat oven to 350 F. Prepare

To make ganache, place heavy

bundt pan with cooking spray.

cream in large microwave

1 (18.3 oz.) box fudge brownie mix

Combine first 5 ingredients

safe bowl and heat for about

4 large eggs

in large bowl and whisk for 2

2 minutes. You want cream to

minutes or until large lumps are

just come to boil. Carefully pour

mostly gone.

chocolate morsels into cream.

1 (15.25 oz.) box chocolate cake mix

1¼ cups water 1 cup vegetable oil Ganache: 1 cup heavy cream 1 (12 oz) bag semi -sweet chocolate chips

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DECEMBER 2021

Pour batter into bundt pan.

Bake 50 to 55 minutes. Cool 5 minutes, turn out cake and cool 30 minutes.

It may rise and bubble and this is OK. Let sit for 5 minutes.

Whisk the chocolate and cream until shiny and smooth, about 1 minute. Pour over cake

food HOT CHOCOLATE LASAGNA Marilles Mauer, Greensburg, Indiana Crust:

Pudding Marshmallow Layer:

36 chocolate sandwich cookies, ground

2 (3.8 oz.) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix

½ cup butter, melted Cocoa Cheesecake Layer: ½ cup butter, softened 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 1 t. vanilla 1 cup powdered sugar 5 (0.73 oz.) envelopes instant milk chocolateflavored hot cocoa mix 1½ cups heavy whipping cream

2¾ cups milk 1 cup mini marshmallows Whipped Cream Layer: 1¼ cups heavy whipping cream or 2½ cups whipped cream 2 T. powdered sugar Topping: 2 cups mini marshmallows Chocolate topping or sweetened hazelnut cocoa spread

To make the crust, place whole

the cheesecake mixture, then fold

beating 1¼ cups heavy whipping

cookies (with the filling) in a food

in the other half, incorporating

cream and powdered sugar until

processor and grind to fine crumbs.

everything well. Remove the crust

stiff peaks form. (Alternately, you

Stir in melted butter and press the

from the refrigerator and spread the

can skip this step and just use 2½

mixture into the bottom of a 13-by-

cheesecake mixture over the crust.

cups prepared whipped cream.)

9-inch pan. Place in the refrigerator.

Set in refrigerator until firm.

Spread over pudding marshmallow

To make cocoa cheesecake layer,

To make the pudding marshmallow

beat softened butter and cream

layer, whisk pudding mix and milk

cheese with vanilla and powdered

until it starts thickening. Stir in 1

Before serving, scatter 2 cups mini

sugar until creamy and smooth.

cup mini marshmallows and spread

marshmallows over whipped cream

In another bowl, beat heavy

over cocoa cheesecake layer. Place

layer. Serve drizzled with melted

whipping cream and hot cocoa

in refrigerator to set.

chocolate or sweetened hazelnut

mix until stiff peaks form. Fold half of the hot cocoa cream into

When pudding marshmallow layer

layer and place in refrigerator a few hours or overnight.

cocoa spread.

is set, make whipped cream by

RAISE THE BAR WITH HOLIDAY-PERFECT SWEET TREATS

Choco-licious!

FO O D PREPARED BY I NDI ANA CO NNECTI O N STA FF PHO TO S BY TAYLO R M ARAN I O N

DECEMBER 2021

17

do-it-yourself

Indiana Connection editor Emily Schilling spreads her collections of “themed” Christmas ornaments around her home, each collection having its own tree: a “Santa Tree” (home for a red, white and blue Santa); a “Shoe Tree” (for a leopard-skinned high-top sneaker); and a cherry pie, below, for her “Dessert Tree.” Meanwhile, senior editor Richard Biever eagerly brings his collection of beavers together for the holidays as part of a giant Christmas village display.

WHEN ONE TREE IS NOT ENOUGH Every ‘tree’ tells a story for two long-time editors at Indiana Connection I read somewhere that once you have

Like Emily, my wife and I have multiple

three of the same kind of item, you have

collections of things that get incorporated

a collection. That philosophy — plus my

into Christmas decor. While we don’t

love of after-Christmas bargain-hunting

set up “theme trees” per se, our main

(including deeply discounted artificial

Christmas tree gets partitioned into little

trees) — lead me to collect Christmas

“neighborhoods” with groupings of family

trees. Each year, my husband and I put

ornaments and things our kids made when

up AT LEAST seven trees (sometimes

they were little, ornaments from vacations,

more if I’m feeling particularly festive).

ornaments from my hometown, etc.

The trees are of various sizes, ranging

My wife has a collection of Santa Claus

from 6 feet tall to a diminutive 12 inches.

ornaments and figurines she displays

One is a pink flocked tree, another a

near our tree. I collect all sorts of beavers

retro-looking metallic one. And not only

— ornaments, figurines, stuffed toys,

are they diverse in their appearance

cartoons. Because I couldn’t escape the

— each is decorated following its own

pronunciation of my last name (and the

theme.

grief it sometimes brought), I embraced it.

The theme trees were born when I started

The beavers are especially welcomed

accumulating more and more ornaments

among the holiday decorations. They

that fell in their own unique categories:

inhabit a large chunk of the ceramic

auto racing, cats, shoes, travel, angels,

Christmas village display on a shelf

Santas, even desserts. Before I knew it,

above the fireplace in our family room.

there were enough ornaments in these categories to fill their own trees.

The first beaver to adorn my Christmas tree wasn’t an ornament at all, though. It

Through the years, new theme trees have

was small stuffed toy named “Butterscotch

emerged, and others are retired. They’ve

Beaver,” a mid-1980s Dairy Queen

reflected particular interests at particular

collectible. Having few ornaments for my

times and showcase memories that are

first full-sized tree once I moved out on

unearthed only when these keepsake

my own after college, I looked around my

ornaments are unpacked from their boxes

apartment for stuff to add: a Mets baseball

once a year. When I lovingly hook an

cap; a bendable Domino’s Noid toy that

ornament on a tree branch, I’m creating

had come with a pizza delivery; the beaver

a representation of who I am, what I like, and what I want to see in my home during

18

toy. I nestled Butterscotch deep among the tree’s branches. He was a natural fit! And thus was the start of a holiday tradition I’ve

the holidays.

carried on now for 35 years.

EMILY SCHILLING ,

RICHARD BIEVER,

editor

senior editor

DECEMBER 2021

THEME TREE tips • Since theme trees reflect what you love, consider them works in progress.

Additional ornaments are most probably going to be added to your trees so be prepared to switch tree sizes to fit your collection.

• Consider coordinating your tree topper with the theme of your tree. An easy way to do that is by fashioning a “showy” bow with a ribbon decorated with a pattern that reflects your theme.

(Example: a black and white checked ribbon for a race car theme tree.)

• Not enough themed ornaments to properly fill out your tree? Add some clear plastic ornaments to the branches.

• Make your tree extra-WOWworthy by matching the vibe of the presents under the tree to the tree’s theme.

Choose wrapping paper and ribbon that coordinate with the ornaments’ colors or theme. For instance, if your tree highlights oldfashioned Santas, find retrolooking wrapping paper featuring St. Nick.

"Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire."

— Gustav Mahler, Bohemian composer

PHOTO SUBMITTED

by Patricia Boscher

CUTTING CAKE TOGETHER

Holiday

Heritage

Readers delight in sharing their Christmas customs

When my husband Tom and I met, my kids were 14 and 12; his were 4 and 2. Not too much in common there. So, when Christmas came, I had to figure out something for both sets of kids despite the age difference.

Everyone loves a birthday party! What better way to include everyone? After all, it is Jesus’ birthday! So, I made a cake. Since it was Christmas, I put on a sprig of holly. No birthday cake is complete without a candle – a big red one. Then, we sing "Happy Birthday" to Jesus. Then the

The December holiday season is

mailed and emailed submissions

all about celebrating traditions.

from around the state. Many were

From the holy religious and cultural celebrations and commemorations to the folklore

youngest gets to blow out the candle.

accompanied with photos. All

The best part is the “kids”

were touching or funny, colorful

are now 59, 57, 49 and 47,

or sweet, or a combination.

and we are still doing it! Now, the youngest is our great

to the commercial “cornucopia

Those whose stories appear here

… of unbridled avarice,” this time

received $50. One randomly

of year is special for most of us in

selected submission was also

Last year, I passed the candle,

many different ways.

selected for a $50 prize. That

holder, holly, and recipe to

reader was Susan Brown

our older daughter, but I’ll still

of French Lick, who shared

make the cake while I am able.

Like various cultures, every family seems to have its own way of celebrating this time of year, year after year, as well.

We asked readers to share stories of their own holiday traditions, past or present. We received 59

memories of cooking with her grandmother.

granddaughter.

PATRICIA BOSCHER Mitchell, Indiana

Here’s a holiday sampler, beginning at right and continuing through page 22. We hope you enjoy them as much as we did.

DECEMBER 2021

19

BAKING UP A TRADITION

PHOTO SUBMITTED

by Sandy Blilie

Cookie Day is a favored

for the day is Christmas

And then, they always turn

tradition for several years

cutouts … double batches

out great looking cookies!

with treasured friends.

… times two. We bake

Not only is the day

them, and our husbands

enjoyable (and tiring), so

decorate them. The guys’

is the anticipation and

tradition is to complain

preparation for the day.

about how many cookies

The signature cookie

we make and devise ways to convince us to cut back.

We finish the day with milk and cookies while watching "Prancer."

SANDY BLILIE Angola, Indiana

PHOTO SUBMITTED by Randy and Shari Rennhack PHOTO SUBMITTED

by Christopher N. Lash

A SEASON OF LIGHT AND MEMORIES When I was growing up in Northwest Indiana with my two sisters, Mom and Dad always made this truly the most wonderful time of the year!

Now that I am an adult, this love for Christmas that my family created for me still burns like a wild fire in my heart. But unfortunately, I was never able to have a family of my own. So, each year at my home, I decorate the entire interior and exterior for this amazing Christmas holiday. It is not the average setup, and I have often been called “Clark” (as in “Griswold” from the movie “Christmas Vacation”) because of my “hobby” — now full-blown obsession. My display consists of approximately 40,000 Christmas lights all synchronized to numerous Christmas carols along with numerous other handmade Christmas decorations and props.

I now see about 5,000 guests each Christmas season as I nightly hand out candy canes and other Christmas treats to all. I see the glow of the lights in the eyes and on the faces of the children and even the “big kids” knowing that they are feeling like I do inside and that I am creating similar traditions for those families that my parents did for my sisters and me.

CHRISTOPHER N. LASH Lafayette, Indiana

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DECEMBER 2021

HOLIDAY ON ICE Christmas is a wonderful time of the year for our family. We are blessed with four children and nine grandchildren. They love to ice skate. So, Papa and Mamoo make a 30-by-70foot ice skating rink in the back yard.

We have a warm fire and watch the older kids skate, and they help teach the younger ones. We have so many memories of Christmas. It warms your heart to see them have so much fun with each other.

RANDY AND SHARI RENNHACK LaGrange, Indiana

LINKS IN THE CHAIN Our Christmas tradition started in 1960 when my dad first made five pounds of sausage. We stuffed it using hog casings and an angel food cake pan. Our family always looked forward to the homemade sausage on Christmas morning. Mom always boiled the sausage a little too long, and I often wonder if it had anything to do with the eggnog!

PHOTO SUBMITTED

by Lisa Cramer

Dad loved auctions and bought an antique cast iron lard press/sausage stuffer in about 1968 which we still

PIECING TOGETHER FAMILY FUN

use today. The sausage making has evolved into the Annual Kreighbaum Sausage Party with family and

Our grandchildren enjoy working a Christmas puzzle

friends each Dec. 23. Everyone takes some sausage

together as each family arrives at our house to celebrate.

home. When we tipped the scale at about 90 pounds.

The first grandkids to arrive begin work immediately on the puzzle with anticipation of the “Cousin Christmas Fun”

(and ran out of counter space), we decided to set the

about to begin.

limit to 50 pounds. Last year because of COVID, our

This allows their parents to unload the car and settle in,

2021, to continue the

and the necessary secrets and behind-the-scene activities

fun.

tradition was canceled. We can't wait until Dec. 23,

to progress.

And now, our son

One year, the picture puzzle was themselves — the

has started this

grandchildren in front of our Christmas tree! The family

tradition in St.

photo Christmas puzzle remains a big hit with the kids!

Petersburg, Florida!

The memories shared as the puzzle is completed is a

JOHN

treasured tradition to make our Christmas special.

KREIGHBAUM Plymouth, Indiana

LISA CRAMER Greensburg, Indiana

SEEKING THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS Christmas morning is such a

says “STOP” — with a ribbon

fun tradition every year and

magical moment. We began

leading them across the room

say it’s the most exciting part

a new tradition when our girls

to our Nativity set missing the

of Christmas. My husband

were young to highlight the

most important piece.

and I also look forward to

meaning behind Christmas.

We decided to hide the baby Jesus from our Nativity set on Christmas Eve night.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

by Darcy Newnum

In place of the missing Jesus is a clue leading them around the house to other clues until they have finally found the

Our girls wake up to the

most significant part of the

scene of gifts under the

Nativity set.

tree. But directly in front of the gifts is a small sign that

Our girls look forward to this

finding new and creative places to hide the baby each year. The mystery of the lost Christ-Child has become such a fun, anticipated part of our Christmas morning.

DARCY NEWNUM Sullivan, Indiana DECEMBER 2021

21

SHADOW BOXES OF MEMORIES One Christmas, when my brother and I were adults, my mom gave us a handmade patchwork quilt. Right after the holiday, she hinted about her next creative idea, and all year long worked on making the gift.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

by Glenda Ferguson

That handmade tradition lasted for over 15 years. Some

of the items she made were a rug braided from strips of blue jeans, wooden birdhouses, and hand-wired lamps.

Each one, she created with love. Unfortunately, the gifts didn’t last. The stitches would unravel, the wood splintered, and the lamps leaned to one side or the other. I never told Mom because I didn’t want to hurt her feelings.

However, one gift is still very precious to me. Several years ago, Mom made three shadow boxes. Inside my brother’s and mine were our baby clothes and shoes, as well as

MEALS ON WHEELS WITH DAD After my father retired, he delivered meals for Meals on Wheels for many years. At Christmastime, one of my favorite traditions was to accompany him on his route. I'd wear my Santa hat, and we'd deliver the meals along with a special Christmas card for each recipient.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

by Amy Ratcliffe

One year, my mother and I even put together small "goodie bags" of Christmas treats (we checked first to find out if anyone was on a special diet) and small gifts to give to the folks on his regular route.

My father passed away in 2018, but one of my fondest memories will always be of delivering meals with a smile and a side of Christmas cheer to his Meals on Wheels clients. It was a special bonding time for us and put a little extra sparkle in the holidays for those who we delivered to.

photos of us wearing those very same outfits. She saved

AMY RATCLIFFE

all those items to pass on to us inside this special gift.

Lafayette, Indiana

Mom made one for herself, with her own baby clothes and a photo, that her own mother preserved.

In 2018, right before Christmas, Mom passed away at the age of 86. I inherited her shadow box. As I was writing this story, I closely examined her baby clothing inside — a small white cotton dress and booties. Those were sewn by hand with small neat stitches and knitted carefully, probably by her mother or her grandmother. I always assumed Mom started the handmade Christmas tradition herself, but I now realize she came from a loving family that created unique gifts that have lasted many

LOVE REMAINS On Christmas 1987, my mom asked if I would play Santa for she was starting to have grandchildren. I was Santa for 30 years. I enjoyed

PHOTO SUBMITTED

by Dan England

having the children sitting on my lap and listening to their Christmas wish list.

generations.

Sadly, mom passed away in 2019, and everything as it

Photo above: Glenda Ferguson holds the shadow boxes

and visited Mom's gravesite. That made others who

assembled by her mom, Geneva White. The one she holds contains the blue coat she wore at 15 months old. The other has a handmade white dress and knitted booties worn by her mom as a child in 1932.

GLENDA FERGUSON Paoli, Indiana

was changed. At Christmas of 2020, I dressed as Santa were visiting the graves of their loved ones smile. They said they never thought they'd see Santa there. I know Mom smiled as she looked down from heaven that day.

She always told me, “No matter what happens, love always remembers.”

DAN ENGLAND Warsaw, Indiana.

22

DECEMBER 2021

HEED THE DANGERS OF

safety

backup generators If your white Christmas goes dark from an electrical blackout, an electric generator can be a great resource for homeowners, especially if the storm and damage is severe and the outage is prolonged. But small portable generators pose risks homeowners need to guard against: carbon monoxide poisoning, electrocution or electric shock, and fire.

Risk #1: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Small generators use a combustion engine that usually burns gasoline or other liquid fuels. Like any gaspowered machine, these small engines produce carbon monoxide.

To prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, keep generators outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents.

Position your generator's exhaust away from your home and locate the generator downwind, if possible.

Risk #2: Electrocution or Electric Shock To avoid the risk of electrocution, do not use a generator in rainy or wet conditions. It's also important to not handle the generator with wet hands to avoid electric shock.

Before plugging appliances or electronics into your generator, make sure your generator is sized appropriately for the total electric

load you want it to run.

Make sure the cords all fit appropriately and are undamaged.

To keep utility workers, neighbors and those in your household from electrocution dangers, never plug your generator directly into your home's wiring. "Backfeeding" sends power from the generator throughout your house in reverse and can even feed onto your electric utility's power lines.

Workers attempting to restore power might unexpectedly encounter this high voltage, which could cause fatal shock. To prevent a "backfeed," have a professional install a transfer switch if you want your generator to run your home's electrical system during an outage.

Risk #3: Burns and Fire When using a generator, store extra fuel in an American National Standards Institute-approved container in a cool, well-ventilated place away from fuel-burning appliances.

GENERATOR DOS AND DON’TS DO operate a generator outdoors in an area with plenty of ventilation.

DO install CO alarms inside the home to provide an early warning of carbon monoxide.

DON’T plug a generator into the wall without installing a transfer switch to prevent backfeed.

DO turn the generator on before plugging in appliances.

DON’T touch the generator with wet hands to avoid electrocution.

DO turn off the generator before refueling with gasoline to allow it to cool down.

DON’T overload the generator.

Before refueling your generator, turn it off and let it cool. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.

DO use a heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cord rated at least equal to the sum of the connected appliances.

Keeping these three risks in mind when installing or using your home's generator will aid in your safety, your home and others.

DON’T use a generator as a permanent solution.

DO consult the owner’s manual for your generator for specific safety instructions.

DECEMBER 2021

23

Hoosier Energy news

LINE INSPECTION TOOL HELPS IMPROVE GRID RESILIENCY

Robotic line crawler speeds up review process, reduces costs

conductor and send it to a lab to

robot determines if there is enough

determine if it needs to be replaced.

thickness left in the wire to help us

New robotic technology changes things significantly.

As Hoosier Energy inspects highvoltage power lines, the co-op is using a robot developed by Kinectrics. This equipment effortlessly glides along the conductor as it collects information in real-time.

Hoosier Energy, your co-op’s power provider, routinely inspects grid components, including the conductor

“We are trying to get an idea of

determine if we need to replace that wire or if we can continue to use it for a few more years,” said Luke McKinney, Hoosier Energy senior transmission line design engineer.

The use of technology like this is helping your co-op’s power provider address safety concerns, increase grid resiliency and reduce replacement costs.

what shape our equipment is in. The

that transmits high-voltage power throughout central and southern Indiana. This process is laborintensive as it requires de-energizing a portion of the grid. Line crews can then safely remove a section of the

24

DECEMBER 2021

WATCH A VIDEO OF THE ROBOT INSPECTION https://vimeo.com/639270346/ba6eb96860

REMC congratulates retiring safety instructor

WARM HANDS AND WARM HEARTS DONATIONS ACCEPTED NOW THROUGH DEC. 17!

Clark County REMC would like to thank Chuck Tiemann, senior risk management/regulatory consultant at Indiana Electric Cooperatives, for his decades of service and leadership. Tiemann’s passion for safety and excellence is second to none, and every REMC family is made better by knowing him and following his advice. We thank him for turning his personal life-changing accident into a lifelong commitment to see that every lineman gets home safely to their families. We enjoyed spending the day with Tiemann, celebrating his career, honoring his legacy, and even filming a powerful re-enactment of that fateful day in 1980 when he was rescued from a pole top after an electrical contact that nearly took his life. Clark County REMC is committed to upholding Tiemann’s highest standards of protection and safety, and we wish Tiemann and his wife, Terri, all the best in retirement.

HOW DO CAPITAL CREDITS WORK? Because electric co-ops operate at cost, any excess revenues are returned to you in the form of capital credits.

The tradition continues this year with the glove/mitten/scarf tree!

Thanks to you and our employees and directors, hundreds of gloves, scarves and socks have been donated to agencies working with families in need in our service area. Please make a contribution this year to warm the hands and heart of a child or adult who doesn’t have the means to buy the basics this winter.

CAPITAL CREDITS: COMING TO YOUR MAILBOX! DECEMBER

Clark County REMC tracks how much electricity you use and pay for throughout the year.

At the end of the year, we assess the finances to see if there is excess revenue.

Clark County REMC allocates the excess revenues as “capital credits” to members, based on how much electricity you’ve used.

Clark County REMC has retired OVER $20 MILLION to members since 2000.

If financial conditions allow, the board of directors will pay out the capital credits in the form of a check to you at a future date.

If you were a member-consumer of Clark County REMC during 19912000, be on the lookout for a check in the mail in early December.

DECEMBER 2021

25

youth programs APPLY FOR

CAMP KILOWATT JUNE 8-11

A fun, unique and electrifying camp experience designed for students entering seventh grade in 2022. Horseback riding, canoeing, zip lining, archery, swimming, learning about electrical safety and bucket truck rides.

APPLY: Go to clarkremc.coop/camp to apply.

Applications must be completed online

by Feb. 18.

INDIANA YOUTH TOUR JUNE 16-23

Clark County REMC wants to send you on a weeklong, all-inclusive trip of a lifetime to Washington, D.C. Visit monuments, museums, legislators, make new friends, and learn about our nation's history.

APPLY: Go to clarkremc.coop/youth-tour to apply.

Applications must be completed online by Feb. 18.

COOPEARTIVE CALENDAR OF STUDENT ART CONTEST 2023

Since 1998, Indiana Connection and participating Indiana electric cooperatives have held an annual art contest for Indiana students in grades kindergarten through 12. The winning works from each grade are then used to illustrate the Cooperative Calendar of Student Art that participating REMCs/RECs have distributed.

ENTER: Visit indianaconnection.org/for-youth/ art-contest/. Enter your artwork by March 18.

26

DECEMBER 2021

CLARK COUNTY REMC SCHOLARSHIPS Clark County REMC assists our members pursuing higher education by awarding scholarships to graduating seniors. $1,000 scholarship for IUS, Ivy Tech Community College, and Purdue Polytechnic: • Clark County REMC is committed to helping collegebound students in our region. Each year, REMC offers 20 $1,000 scholarships to Indiana University Southeast, Ivy Tech Community College of Sellersburg and Purdue Polytechnic New Albany. Make sure to take advantage of this opportunity for your student!

The Cindy Hockensmith Memorial Scholarship: • In 2019, Clark County REMC created The Cindy Hockensmith Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $2,500 that will be awarded to one high school senior annually. The recipient of this scholarship must attend as a full-time student to any Indiana college or university.

APPLY: Download an application at clarkremc.coop/ scholarships. Applications are due by March 4.

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FEBRUARY 2019