Henry County REMC — December 2021 Indiana Connection

Serving our community.

Henry 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

4

DECEMBER 2021

Serving www.hcremc.com

OUR COMMUNIT Y With the Christmas holiday season upon us and the new year just around the corner, I can’t help but reflect on the gratitude I feel for

CONTACT US 800-248-8413 Fax: 765-529-1667 OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday STREET ADDRESS 3400 S. State Road 3 New Castle, IN 47362 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box D New Castle, IN 47362 A night deposit box is available 24 hours a day.

EMAIL hcremc@hcremc.com SERVICE INTERRUPTIONS To report a power outage, please call 800-248-8413, day or night.

MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Henry County REMC is to provide reliable, safe and cost-competitive electrical service to enhance the lives of our members and the communities we serve.

BILL DUE DATES Bills mailed Dec. 9 are due Dec. 28.

Bills mailed Dec. 15 are due Jan. 3.

Bills mailed Dec. 30 are due Jan. 18.y.

Know what’s below.

Call 811 before you dig!

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ HenryCountyREMC FOLLOW US ON TWITTER www.twitter.com/ HenryCountyREMC

co-op news

our community.

I think most will agree the last couple of years have been like no other — certainly in my lifetime. And while we’ve seen our share of challenges, I am heartened by the ways in which we have all pulled together to make our community stronger.

Because we are a co-op, volunteerism and giving back are a part of who we are. Several of our line workers are volunteer firefighters and first responders, putting their lives at risk to help others. Many of our co-op employees coach youth sports, lead church youth groups, assist in school productions or serve on local boards.

We look at co-op volunteerism as an investment in our community by enabling our employees to donate their time and expertise to help groups that are doing so much for our community.

I look at volunteerism as the gift that keeps on giving. While it’s difficult to quantify the impact that volunteers have, I do know they make a tremendous difference in our community and make our corner of the world a better place.

Many organizations depend on volunteers to fulfill their mission.

Volunteers fill in gaps and spread joy and compassion through their efforts. Even assisting with the smallest tasks can make a big impact in the lives of people, animals, or an organization in need. Often a big commitment or special skills are not needed, just someone who cares.

I hope you’ll consider volunteering.

Give an organization or cause that you care about the gift of your compassion, time, and talent.

In addition to the organization and the community benefiting from your efforts, you will receive a gift as well. Not only will you enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you are helping a good cause, but you will also likely make new friends, expand your social network, strengthen existing skills or learn a new one.

Volunteering may provide additional dimension and purpose to your life.

In the process, you will be a role model for your family because your commitment will offer a powerful lesson to your children. It will show them firsthand how one person can make a big difference and strengthen the community in which they live. At the end of the day, the gift of volunteerism is a gift that will continue giving all year long.

So, this holiday season, consider starting a new tradition — give the gift of time. I want to wish you and yours a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

MELISSA TRUE CEO DECEMBER 2021

5

co-op news

Celebrate with

holiday efficiency

GIVE THE GIFT OF FOOD Drop off food at Henry County REMC during normal business hours this December.

Donate five items and receive a smart energy kit that includes a smart LED lightbulb, smart socket, LED nightlight and wall plate thermometer.

Examples of food you can donate:

Inspect all holiday lighting and electrical decorations for frayed or damaged cords.

Deck your halls with LED holiday light strands – they’re 70% more energy incandescent bulbs.

• Peanut butter

• Canned fish

• Canned soup • Canned fruit

• Canned beans

• Canned vegetables

• Rice

• Pasta

• Canned stew What NOT to donate: • Items needing refrigeration • Expired food • Leftovers Water your tree daily.

Shedding or dry needles increases fire risks.

• Food with packaging concerns • Baked goods

Donating to a local food bank can be a great way to give back during the holidays.

Save energy by setting a timer for outdoor lighting and decorations.

Whether you are doing a food drive or just picking up some extra items at the grocery store, every little bit counts, especially now.

3 Ft.

Place your tree at least three feet away from any heat source, like an air duct or fireplace.

6

DECEMBER 2021

Use solar-powered lights to decorate outdoors this holiday season.

co-op news

OPERATION ROUND UP GIVES TO THREE LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS

NEW CASTLE FAMILY AND INTERNAL MEDICINE received funding to support the Reach Out and Read program. This nationally recognized literacy program provides books to at-risk Hoosier children in our community to develop a love for reading and the skills required to be successful in an academic environment.

On Monday, Oct. 25, the HCREMC Operation Round Up board awarded $2,745 to three local organizations.

The Operation Round Up board would like to thank REMC members who participate in Operation Round Up. Your change really makes a difference in our community. If your organization would like to apply for an Operation Round Up grant, please contact Henry County REMC at 800-248-8413 or visit hcremc.com.

BLUE RIVER VALLEY CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE received funding for structure updates including lighting fixtures, smoke detectors, etc.

If you are a member of HCREMC and would like information on how to round up your change to help your community in need, please call the office.

2021

UNPLANNED OUTAGE HOURS

BY CAUSE 33% Trees

5% Unknown

30% Transmission

3% Design/ Equipment Failure

17% Public 10% Weather

2% Animals

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK received funding to assist with hygiene product needs along with monthly food distribution at participating Big Idea Henry County Schools.

DECEMBER 2021

7

co-op news

in the know

Henry County REMC members in Fayette County will see improvement this year and beyond as HCREMC increases reliability in that area. Our right-of-way reclamation project is almost done. It will prevent future tree-related outages. Additionally, our in-house crew performed maintenance on every single pole, transformer, fuse and device in that area. HCREMC linemen joined a campaign to battle the rural Indiana elements through preventative maintenance.

Members being fed by our Lewisville and Kennard substations will see an increase in inspections and tree work in their areas. Keep an eye out for notifications on tree removal, pole testing and inspections taking place. All the work done is crucial for continued improvement and reliability.

Raysville and Knightstown residents have noticed rerouting issues from I-70 and U.S. 40. This detour has forced many big rigs onto county roads where they have trouble negotiating turns and staying on narrow roadways. In turn, HCREMC members have seen a spike in power disruptions as poles and guy wires are being hit when trucks leave the roadway. HCREMC crews are dispatched and working diligently to accommodate all situations impacting electrical service.

HCREMC battles supply chain woes and pushes through with infrastructure rebuild in 2022. Each year we have a slate of projects in our budget that take aim in replacing aged power lines or converting them to underground where it makes sense to do so. For regular updates on the whereabouts of these and future projects, please visit the utility construction map at hcremc.com.

2021 REBATE APPLICATIONS ARE DUE DEC. 15. LEARN MORE AT HCREMC.COM. 8 DECEMBER DECEMBER2021 2021

How much is that space heater really costing you?

Many electric space heaters advertise they can slash your electric bill. What they don’t advertise is that they can also cause that bill to increase significantly.

Whether it’s a standard electric space heater you can buy at a store or a “ruby quartz” or “infrared” souped-up model advertised in a newspaper or on a billboard, the thing you need to be concerned about is simply how much power the unit consumes. This is most commonly given in watts. Check the box or the unit itself for this information.

Many electric space heaters are rated at 1,500 watts. This rating is how much power the heater uses. You are billed for each kilowatt-hour of electricity you consume. A thousand watts is equal to one kilowatt, so 1,500 watts is equal to 1.5 kilowatts. This means for each hour the space heater is running it consumes 1.5 kilowatt-hours of electricity, which costs about 16 cents.

Doesn’t sound like much does it? But running that heater nonstop is a surefire way to increase your bill. If you ran one 1,500-watt space heater for 18 hours a day for a single month it would cost about $86.

That’s on top of your normal bill.

So where are the savings that are often touted on such items?

An electric space heater can save you money, but only if you reduce the running time of your electric furnace or other primary heating system.

A space heater could reduce your electric bill, for instance, if you lowered the thermostat on your electric furnace from 72 F to 66 F and used the space heater to heat a single occupied room up to a comfortable temperature. If, however, you’re using the space heater to heat an area of your home normally not heated, like an enclosed porch, then the space heater is simply an additional cost to your electric bill.

Also, keep in mind that if you’re using an electric space heater to supplement a propane furnace, then you may see a drop in the amount of propane you use, but your electric bill will still increase because of the addition of the heater.

Electric space heaters can provide an effective and simple means of heating that cold, unconditioned tool shed, bedroom or other relatively small space, but you should always follow safety precautions to prevent injuries and fires.

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energy via mobile device and offer added controls, such as dusk-to-dawn functionality.

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

BUY ENERGY STAR®-RATED PRODUCTS. When shopping for new decorations – or even major appliances – search for items that have the ENERGY STAR label. Items and appliances with this rating use less electricity than other products available. The reduced energy use will save you

J

ust as kids will ravenously rip into

USE LED LIGHTS FOR ENERGY SAVINGS.

gift boxes later this

decorations are rated for outside use. Not all

money over the product’s lifecycle.

holiday lights are rated

Taking just a few steps can

month, many adults start

If you use the same

for exposure to rain or

holiday lights and

lead to holiday happiness

the month rummaging

snow. Using indoor lights

decorations for years, you

while ensuring safety and

through garages, attics

outside your home could

may be wasting money!

savings all season! You

and basements to dig out

damage them, leading

Technology has improved

can put that money to

ye olde lights of holidays

to a higher risk of fire or

the efficiency of holiday

good use – on additional

yore to once more

electrical shock.

lights which are now

sides for festive meals, or

commemorate the season.

USE TIMERS TO SCHEDULE DISPLAYS.

even gifts under the tree.

While decorations liven

energy advice or tips to

up the mood, it makes the

help you keep your wallet

most sense to have them

a bit greener all year long!

made with LEDs. If you Before you go searching for

have not updated your

those old lights and electric

lights in the last five years,

decorations, you should be

you may want to consider

wary that those splendid

upgrades. If you decorate

gingerbread characters,

with older illuminated

snowmen and other

lawn ornaments, consider

illuminating mascots may

switching the bulbs inside

actually be energy vampires

those ornaments with

sucking up way more

LEDs.

electricity than needed – driving your energy bill up!

Here are a few steps to keep in mind when planning your holiday decorations to ensure safety while minimizing cost:

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

Before decorating

smart plug; these newer

outdoors, make sure

devices can be controlled

that your lights and

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.

14

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

16

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

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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

Merry Christmas

co-op news

and Happy New Year from the employees and directors of HCREMC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CEO

Tom Green, GIS Specialist

Brian Becker, Chairman

Melissa True

Drew Horning, Groundsman

SENIOR STAFF

Heath Hudnut, Planning and Construction Coordinator

Shane Young, Vice Chairman Sam Sparks, Secretary Jamey Marcum, Treasurer Jay Carr Don Cross Wayne Jester Nate LaMar Curt Poore Jon Madison (Attorney)

Brandon Hall, Manager of Technology and Public Relations Chad Hinesley, Line Superintendent Amber Houser, Manager of Accounting and Member Services Adam Warwas, Manager of Engineering and Operations

STAFF

Anita Irvin, Administrative Assistant Chelsi Jackson, Energy Advisor/ Capital Credit Coordinator Alicia Jones, Part-time CSR Wes Jones, Lineman/Meter Tech Lance Koontz, Lineman Luke Lannan, Line Apprentice Cory Murphy, Groundman

Russell Atkinson, Groundsman

Leah Nicholson, Accounting Assistant

Mark Bauman, Facilities and Right-of-Way Coordinator

Debbie Poor, Operations Assistant/ Dispatch

Hayley Berg, Member Services Coordinator

Tyler Powell, Lineman

Jason Burton, Operations Assistant/ Material Handler

Mandy Stamper, Engineering Assistant

Rick Byrer, Lineman Heather Flynn, Marketing Coordinator

Steve Thurston, Equipment Operator/ Foreman

Heather Ferguson, CSR

Cody Walker, Line Apprentice

Bobby Frasur, Line Apprentice

Deb Winter, CSR

Tom Gettinger, Lineman

Aaron York, IT Specialist

Monica Sexton, CSR Joe Stevens, Line Forman

DECEMBER 2021

25

cooperative career Professional progression:

BETTER THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT The old saying about good things coming to those who wait is only partially true for Leslie Beard. She already had a good thing, she said; that was being hired not long after college as a customer service representative at WIN Energy REMC in 2000. But she was a marketing graduate, and that’s what she really wanted to pursue.

She then patiently waited, learning all about the cooperative business and WIN Energy REMC’s consumers, moving next into the billing department. Finally, after 10 years, a marketing position was created at the southwestern Indiana electric cooperative. Beard applied and was offered the new position.

Fast forward 10 more years to December 2020: After supplementing her past education and experiences with a master’s degree in business administration and many other leadership and personal growth opportunities the REMC offered, Beard was promoted to the chief operating officer.

“Once I got into the cooperative,” she recalled, “I realized this is a really

26

great place to work. I believed in the business model, and the values, and what we do. And even though I wanted to be in that marketing position, the time that I spent in customer service and the billing department made me better suited for the marketing position. I learned a lot and was able to apply what I learned.”

Working in customer service and billing through the 2000s, Beard was able to apply what she learned at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. But the most important thing those experiences provided, she noted, was the opportunity to learn all the moving parts of the electric utility.

“If I would have gone right into a marketing position, I would not have had the knowledge and background to be as successful as I was with having that previous experience,” she said.

“Timing is everything in our industry.

We don’t have a lot of turnover, and so sometimes waiting pays off.”

2000 hired

2002 PROMOTED

Customer Service Representative

Billing Representative

DECEMBER 2021

Leslie Beard

Chief Operating Officer

WIN Energy REMC

Once she started in marketing in 2010 as a one-person department, she was able to use her deeper understanding of the business to better connect with consumers. Five years later, her role grew dramatically when she was promoted to director of marketing and member services. In that position, she directed and supervised 13 employees in the billing, member services, marketing, purchasing, and warehousing departments.

Rounding out her first year in the COO position, Beard looks back fondly on her previous roles and how they helped her get to where she is now.

“You have to work toward where you want to be, and it takes time. But it’s definitely been good for me.”

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

2010 PROMOTED

2015 PROMOTED

Manager of Marketing and Communications

Director of Marketing and Member Services

2020 promoted Chief Operating Officer

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FEBRUARY 2019