Harrison REMC — December 2017 Electric Consumer

HARRISON REMC

YOUR INDIANA COOPERATIVE COMPANION

MUST BE

Santa!

Doppelgänger revels in role

Plan for winter bills You never know if winter will be wild or mild

DECEM BER 2 0 1 7

from the editor

Spirit of the season

VOLUME 67 • NUMBER 6 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by:

It’s the beginning of December. Have you decked your halls yet?

My husband and I begin decorating for the holiday the day after Thanksgiving. I admit, I go a bit crazy with the decorations. Each November, I put up trees throughout the house — including the bathroom!

Last year, I decided to cut back a little — some decorations stayed in their boxes and were immediately returned to the crawlspace, and instead of decorating eight trees, I just did six.

But still, I like going cuckoo for Christmas and enjoy putting out my snowman collection, unpacking my Christmas china, and hanging up treasured ornaments acquired throughout the years.

I hope this month’s magazine will bring a little holiday cheer to your home. Find out more about the jolly good man on the cover starting on page 19. Add a little peppermint to your holidays with recipes on pages 17 and 18. Check out the events calendar on pages 26 and 27 to see what Christmas events you can add to your calendar.

On pages 24 and 25, we’ll introduce you to this year’s Youth Power and Hope Award winners, who are making a difference in their communities — not only during this season of giving, but throughout the year.

Since I did just mention season of giving … I’ve donned my Santa hat and am ready to give one of our dear readers a CD of Christmas music. “Now That’s What I Call Merry Christmas” includes favorites like “A Holly Jolly Christmas,” “Blue Christmas,” “Feliz Navidad” and “White Christmas.” See below for details on how to enter this giveaway.

Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season! See you again in 2018!

EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@electricconsumer.org

On the menu: February — Asian food; deadline Dec. 22. March — Potatoes; deadline Jan. 22. April — Foods that Fool (Foods with unusual, unexpected ingredients or they aren’t what they appear to be.); deadline Jan. 22 (please note earlier deadlines beginning with the April issue). If we publish your recipe on our food page, we’ll send you a $10 Target gift card.

Reader Submissions page: February — Photos of woodland

creatures; deadline Dec. 22. March — Weather-related photos; deadline Jan. 22. April — Cat photos, deadline Jan. 22..

Christmas CD Giveaway: Send an email to ec@electricconsumer.org with the subject line “Christmas CD” by Dec. 20. The winners of the Shutterfly book from November are: Mark and Angie Wollenmann of Ferdinand.

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 ElectricConsumer.org; email ec@ElectricConsumer.org; or send to Electric Consumer, PO Box 24517, Indianapolis, IN 46224.

ELECTRIC CONSUMER 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 251,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership.

OUR ADDRESS 720 N. High School Road Indianapolis, IN 46214 TELEPHONE 317-487-2220 or 800‑340‑7362 EMAIL ec@ElectricConsumer.org WEBSITE ElectricConsumer.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS Ron Arnholt President Gary Gerlach Vice President Walter Hunter Secretary/Treasurer Tom VanParis Chief Executive Officer EDITORIAL STAFF Emily Schilling Editor Richard George Biever Senior Editor Holly Huffman, Ellie Schuler Communications Specialists / Local Page Coordinators ADVERTISING American MainStreet Publications, 800-626-1181; amp.coop Crosshair Media, 502-216-8537; crosshairmedia.net Paid advertisements are not endorsements by any electric cooperative or this publication.

UNSOLICITED MATERIAL: Electric Consumer 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: Readers who receive Electric Consumer through their electric co-op membership should report address changes to their local co-op.

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

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to: Electric Consumer, P.O. Box 24517, Indianapolis, IN 46224. Include key number.

No portion of Electric Consumer may be reproduced without permission of the editor.

DECEMBER 2017

3

contents

DECEMBER

14

17

product picks 03 FROM THE EDITOR 05 CO-OP NEWS What’s happening at your local electric cooperative.

10 ENERGY Lighten up your holidays with LEDs — and save.

13 INSIGHTS Art contest to illustrate our 2019 calendar announced.

19

food

14 PRODUCT PICKS Tech your halls with festive electronic decorations.

16 INDIANA EATS Tippecanoe Place.

17 FOOD Peppermint sweets.

19 COVER STORY Co-op employee embodies spirit of Santa year round.

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ElectricConsumer Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/Electriconsumer

cover story 24 Y OUTH POWER & HOPE AWARD WINNERS 28 OUTDOORS Here’s a twist: Tips on how NOT to bag a deer.

29 SAFETY Holiday safety tips.

30 BACKYARD How to properly care for amaryllis.

backyard 31 RECALLS 32 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS 33 READER SUBMISSIONS O, Christmas trees!

34 PROFILE McCord Candies in Lafayette hooks you with holiday sweetness. (not in all editions)

On the Cover Must it be Santa? Or is it one of his many “helpers” throughout the world who make

Find us on Pinterest www.pinterest.com/Electriconsumer

sure the jolly ambassador of Christmas cheer

Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/ElectricConsumer

Larry Schuler is certainly one do-gooding

keeps his appointed rounds? Dubois REC’s doppelgänger who revels in the role.

PHOTO BY RICHARD G. BIEVER

4

30

DECEMBER 2017

co-op news

wild or mild ?

Will this winter be

www.harrisonremc.com CONTACT US 812-738-4115 812-951-2323 Fax: 574-935-4162 EMAIL Click on “Contact Us” at www.harrisonremc.com.

OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday STREET ADDRESS 1165 Old Forest Road, Corydon, IN 47112 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 517, Corydon, IN 47112 SERVICE INTERRUPTIONS To report a power outage, please call 812738-4115 or 812-951-2323, day or night.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Pat Book (Palmyra), Chairman Brian Koetter (Borden), Vice President David Poe (Floyds Knobs), Secretary/Treasurer David Walther (Lanesville) Darin Duncan (Elizabeth) C. Todd Uhl (Corydon) Danny Wiseman (Mauckport)

Are we in for our third consecutive mild

The cumulative degree days for the

winter or will the frigid weather return?

winters of 2015 and 2016 were more

Well, it depends on who you talk to or

than 30 percent lower than the winter

where you get your information.

of 2014 and were the two mildest

Do you believe the directors of NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric

winters, by degree day standards, in CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Administration) or those who have been talking about the color and size of the “wooly” worms? The NOAA says our area may be colder than last year, but it still will be considered a “mild” winter.

The Farmers' Almanac also says it will be colder, but not too much colder than usual, and precipitation will be at above normal levels.

The actual weather we receive will have a big impact on our electric bills as they are predominately driven by weather and

Roy Zimmerman (Laconia)

consumer use patterns.

Craig Engleman (Corydon)

The bottom line is that we want to be

Harrison REMC offers...

LED security light rental; heating and cooling rebate program; surge protection information; home energy seminars; CFL bulb recycling; payment via phone, online, e-check, automatic payment plan and budget billing; REMC gift certifications; and mobile website with notification options!

comfortable.

To give you an accurate picture of how the outside temperature relates to our comfort level, the National Weather Service uses “degree days” to define the margin between the average outdoor temperature and a baseline of 65 degrees, which

MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Harrison REMC is to provide a well-informed membership with superior, competitively priced electric and related member service(s), accomplished by highly trained, committed employees. It is further the mission to improve the quality of life of the member-owners by promoting community, economic development and energy efficiency activities.

is considered to be a comfortable temperature with no heating or cooling devices needed. Heating degree days are a measure of the severity and duration of cold weather; the colder the weather over a given period, the higher the cumulative heating degree day value.

DECEMBER 2017

5

youth programs

apply HOW TO

PAGE DAY 1. Visit iga.in.gov/legislative/

INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

JAN. 31

Page Day

FEB. 7

Spend a day in the Indiana Senate with students from REMCs around the state. See the Senate in action, observe policy debates, assist legislators during session, and tour the governor’s office and Statehouse.

REQUIREMENTS You must be available on Jan. 31 or Feb. 7 and have reliable transportation to and from the Indiana Statehouse that day. The program is open

find-legislators to find your

to high school students. Please confirm with school administrators, but Page

state legislator.

Day is considered an excused absence in most instances.

2. Visit IndianaEC.org/?p=287 to apply.

3. Submit your application.

T OUC H S T ON E E N E RGY C A MP For more information about attending camp this summer and to download an application, visit

Touchstone Energy Camp

WASHINGTON, D.C.

JUNE 6-9

Indiana youth tour

JUNE 7-14

What are you doing this summer?

A fun, powerful, and unique

www.harrisonremc.com and

Your electric co-op wants to send

camp experience

you on a weeklong, all-inclusive

hover on the "community" tab.

designed for

trip of a lifetime

students entering

to Washington,

seventh grade in

D.C.

2018. Horseback

Monuments,

riding, canoeing,

museums,

zip lining, trying out

legislators,

archery, swimming,

friends, trip of a

learning about

www.harrisonremc.com and

lifetime, history.

electrical safety, and

Must be a junior

hover on the “community” tab.

bucket truck rides!

to apply.

Applications are due by Feb. 15.

I N DIA NA YOU T H T OU R Ready to pack your bags?

Download an application at

Applications are due by Feb. 15.

6

ENERGIZE YOUR SUMMER AT

DECEMBER 2017

Director petitions now available Being a member of an electric co-op is

available at the office of the REMC

a unique opportunity to be part of the

during regular business hours starting

decision-making process in a business.

Dec. 1. The REMC petitions must be

Because Harrison REMC is a cooperative, it is owned by its members.

That means members are responsible for voting for fellow members to take leadership positions on the board of directors.

Each April, Harrison REMC holds an annual meeting for members to attend.

This meeting includes an update on the co-op and the electric industry as well as the election of directors for the districts that are up for re-election.

How are director candidates nominated?

In accordance with the bylaws, all new director nominees must be nominated by a petition signed by at least 20 members of the cooperative who are at least 18 years old.

For the purpose of the petition, a husband and wife shall be deemed one member. Petition forms will be

completed and filed with the REMC office by Jan. 20, prior to the annual meeting of the cooperative. In lieu of a petition, incumbent board members may file a written notice at the office of the

co-op news REMC Electric Assistance Program

LEND A HAND The Electric Assistance Program is designed to help REMC members who are 150 percent below the poverty level

cooperative by Jan. 20. REMC districts

pay their electric bills in time of need. You

1, 8 and 9 are up for election at the 2018

can help by sending a donation of any

annual meeting.

amount to the program. Each member

• District 1: New Albany and

from Harrison REMC.*

Georgetown townships in Floyd County • District 8: Heth and Washington townships and the area of Harrison Township south of State Road 62 and west of State Road 135 in Harrison County • District 9: Boone and Webster townships in Harrison County More information regarding the election process was printed in the November issue of Electric Consumer and is currently available on the REMC website, www.harrisonremc.com.

donation will be matched by equal funds

All contributions made to the REMC Electric Assistance Program are tax deductible. You will receive a receipt for your records.

Local county community service agencies will distribute the funds from the REMC Electric Assistance Program to provide direct service assistance to REMC members. Since Harrison REMC serves part of five southern Indiana counties, contributions will be distributed in the county from which they were received.

To make a contribution, please complete this form and send it to: Harrison REMC — Electric Assistance Program, P.O. Box 517, Corydon, IN 47112.

Name:

Welcome to Harrison REMC! The directors and employees at Harrison REMC would like to

Address: Phone #: REMC Account #: Choose one of these payment options:

•

One-time donation: $ __________ (Amount enclosed. Check made payable to Harrison REMC Electric Assistance Program.)

•

Indicate monthly amount REMC will add to your electric bill each month for 12 months: $ _________

welcome our newest team member, Brandi Cannon. Cannon works as a member service representative. She and her family reside in Depauw.

Signature: *Call Harrison REMC for questions regarding DECEMBER 2017 matching details.

7

co-op news CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 the last 14 years. Will this mild weather trend be broken this winter?

Even with careful management of your energy use, your bill may still be higher than normal in winter months.

• The weather makes a big impact on electric bills, accounting for nearly half of your bill.

• Even those with the most efficient HVAC systems will see more use in extreme weather.

• When extreme cold temperatures hit, our heaters work overtime.

• For example, even if you set your thermostat to our recommended 68 degrees in the winter, when it is 19 degrees outside, your system

REMC collecting items for community needs In the month of December, Harrison REMC will collect food items for distribution to various community agencies.

Members can bring in 10 items to receive an energy efficiency kit — one kit per membership.

Donations are needed for the following items: spaghetti, crackers, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter, jelly, canned vegetables and fruits, pasta sauces, canned tuna and soups.

We will not accept bagged items or items that are out of date or damaged.

has to work hard to make up that 49-degree difference.

• Your heater works harder and cycles on and off more often, making your use much higher.

That means your bill will be much higher.

• Remember: There is value in comfort. For us to be comfortable in our homes, our heaters are going to work harder, but it may be worth the additional cost to you.

Wholesale Power Cost Adjustment Harrison REMC will make a Wholesale Power Cost Adjustment to its retail rates as a result of changes in Hoosier Energy Inc.’s wholesale power costs to its member Rural Electric Membership Corporations (REMCs). This action will result in an expected increase

Winter weather can be unpredictable, and planning

to member bills of $0.001272 per kWh ($1.27 per 1,000

ahead can make a difference in whatever Mother

kWh). This change will take effect for bills to be rendered

Nature has in store this year.

beginning with the December 2017 billing cycles.

In the market to buy, build or renovate?

Call the REMC office to schedule a free one-on-one session with Energy Advisor Bob Geswein.

CUSTOMIZED INFO FOR YOUR PROJECT!

8

DECEMBER 2017

Learn great ways to save money through energy efficient construction and remodeling techniques from a local pro.

Call 812-734-3538 to schedule your session today!

energy

Lighten up with LEDs

Shedding light on the energy efficiency of lightbulbs

by Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen

I

n this “season of light,” you might have invested in new strands of energy-efficient LED Christmas lights,

and thinking of updating the everyday bulbs you use around your house.

Today, there are so many types of bulbs, it’s enough to make your head spin!

We often take lighting for granted.

We choose fixtures and bulbs without thinking through some of the more important issues, such as specific lighting needs of the room and how to save money on energy bills.

The more, the

merrier Christmas

Light emitting diodes (LEDs) now account for 60 percent of the holiday lighting sold in the U.S. each year. LEDs are enticing consumers to have bigger and

brighter displays, even as they use far less energy, or use the

Why settle

same number of lights and save energy! for this?

When you could have all this?

Incandescent miniature bulbs use about 8.5 times the amount of electricity LEDs use for the same amount of light. That means for every 3 incandescent bulbs on the left, you could use over 25 of the LED bulbs on the right without increasing your electric bill.

Saving energy starts with choosing the correct bulb. Efficiency standards for incandescent bulbs between 40 and 100 watts, which came into effect in 2012, led to the halogen bulb (also known as energy-efficient incandescent). These bulbs are at least 25 percent more efficient than the old incandescents. The other two common types of household bulbs, CFLs, or compact fluorescent lamps, and LEDs, which stand for lightemitting diodes. LEDs are even more efficient.

Energystar.gov estimates that you can save $75 a year by replacing the five most-used incandescent bulbs or light fixtures with ENERGYSTAR-certified LED or CFL lighting. Of the three types, LEDs tend to save more money over the long run, and LED prices have decreased in recent years.

and lumens. Watts indicate how much

Installing dimmers instead of on/off light

energy (and therefore, money) is used

switches is a good way to save energy

to produce light. Lumens indicate how

while giving you greater control of the

much light the bulb produces. A handy

amount of light in the room. Not all bulbs

comparison is that an 800-lumen bulb is

are dimmable, so be sure to check the

about equal to the amount of light from

label on the bulb. It’s worth considering

a traditional 60-watt incandescent bulb.

whether you have the right number and

Lumennow.org offers an excellent guide

the right location for light switches. We

to understanding bulbs.

recommend hiring a licensed electrician

Bulbs also give off different colors of light, known as color temperature. If a

It’s always a good idea to check with

LED, as it dims over time — it can be

your local electric co-op as it may offer

challenging to find a replacement that

energy audits or lighting product rebates.

matches other lights in the room. If the variation bothers you, you may want to purchase and install bulbs of the same brand and wattage for the entire room or

of bulb to buy, consider both watts

area at the same time.

DECEMBER 2017

switches.

bulb burns out — or in the case of an

When you’re considering which type

10

if you decide to install new lighting and

PAT KEEGAN and BRAD THIESSEN of Collaborative Efficiency write for the member publications of America’s Electric Cooperatives.

For more information on heat pumps, please visit: www.collaborativeefficiency.com/energytips.

Tired of struggling on the stairs?

Introducing the Affordable Easy Climber® Elevator

Can be placed virtually anywhere in your home.

Home Improvement that actually improves your LIFE!

SAFE

u Equipped with weight, balance and obstruction sensors u Works even in a power outage

VERSATILE

u Can be placed almost anywhere in your home u Quick professional installation

CONVENIENT

u Footprint is slightly larger than a refrigerator u Compact and Quiet

Stan W. US war veteran and retired professor

•

Its small “footprint” and selfcontained lift mechanism adds convenience and value to your home and quality to your life. It’s called the Easy Climber® Elevator.

Call us now and we can tell you just how simple it is to own.

For many people, particularly seniors, climbing stairs can be a struggle and a health threat. Some have installed motorized stair lifts, but they block access to the stairs and are hardly an enhancement

No more climbing up stairs No more falling down stairs Plenty of room for groceries or laundry Perfect for people with older pets Ideal for Ranch houses with basements

to your home’s décor. By contrast, the Easy Climber® Elevator can be installed almost anywhere in your home. That way you can move easily and safely from floor to floor without struggling or worse yet… falling.

Why spend another day without this remarkable convenience?

Knowledgeable product experts are standing by to answer any questions you may have. Call Now!

Call now to find out how you can get your own Easy Climber Elevator.

Please mention promotional code 107610.

For fastest service, call toll-free.

1-888-673-1398

Residential installations only. Not available in all areas. Call to see if you qualify. © 2017 Aging in the Home Remodelers Inc.

82837

“We are tickled about our new elevator. This is the first time I’ve seen the second floor of my home! It’s like an early Christmas present.”

• • • •

Revolutionary elevator can give you– and your home’s value– a lift Elevators have been around since the mid 19th century, and you can find them in almost every multistory structure around… except homes. That’s because installing an elevator in a home has always been a complicated and expensive home renovation project… until now.

Innovative designers have created a home elevator that can be easily installed almost anywhere in your home by our professional team without an expensive shaft-way.

Imagine the possibilities

insights

The U.S. Post Office in Santa Claus, Indiana, offers a special “picture

Brace

cold

for the

postmark” to cancel stamps on holiday mail.

Each year, the postmark is designed by a local high school student as part of

PHO TO BY I S TO CK / G E TTY I MAG E S P LUS

Special Santa Claus postmark available

a contest. This year’s winner is Audrey Vaal of St. Meinrad.

To get the special postmark for your holiday mail, follow these guidelines: • Allow at least a 2-inch by 4-inch space in the stamp area for the postmark.

• Apply postage to cards or letters before bringing or mailing them to the post office.

• If you mail Christmas cards to the post office, package them — with postage stamps already on them — in a sturdy envelope or box, and mail to: Postmaster, Santa Claus Station, Santa Claus, IN 47579-9998.

• The picture postmark is available on work days from Dec. 1 to 24 and must be requested by the customer.

• To ensure a good postmark imprint, do not enclose large or bulky items in your holiday mail such as snowflakes, glitter and stickers.

• There is no charge for postmarking;

Agency sees colder, more expensive winter

A

mericans will pay more in heating costs this season over last, the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Winter Fuels Outlook predicts.

costs,” the EIA said. It said temperatures nationally are predicted to be an average 13 percent colder this winter, while noting that last winter was “significantly warmer than normal.”

The good news for electric consumers is electricity is forecast to have the lowest increase at 8 percent. The figure climbs to 12 percent for natural gas, 17 percent for home heating oil, and 18 percent for propane.

For the 40 percent of American households using electric heat, EIA forecasts an average monthly bill increase of $74. It cites both higher electricity prices and overall increased consumption.

“Most of the increase reflects expected colder weather rather than higher energy

The winter outlook was released Oct. 11 in conjunction with EIA’s monthly ShortTerm Energy Outlook.

Ring everyone a nostalgic Christmas Electric Consumer invites readers to visit our YouTube channel to revisit the REMC “Ringing Everyone a Merry Christmas” gift records from the 1960s. These 45 rpm records were distribut-

however, there is a limit of 50 picture

ed by Indiana electric co-ops each holiday sea-

postmarks per person per day.

son from 1964-68 and in 1970. They told sweet

For more information, call 812-937-4469; or visit SantaClausInd.org/Christmas.

tales of farm kids anticipating Christmas, taking sleigh rides into the woods, and meeting Santa and elves and learning about the special gift of electricity.

A wacky edit of just the jingle, featuring electric co-op mascot Willie Wiredhand, is also available.

In addition, a video featuring the Electric Consumer’s Christmas ornament contest winners, 1996-2005, is also available. You’ll also find a variety of kids’ crafts and other videos we’ve posted over the years. Go to our website, ElectricConsumer.org, and find our menu of Christmas videos in the front page carousel, then click, click, click the links, and be whisked away to Christmases past.

12

DECEMBER 2017

Cooperative Calendar of Student art 2018

insights

SHOWCASE OF AWARD-WINNING WORKS

BY INDIANA STUDENTS Produced by Electric Consumer for Indiana’s REMCs Cover art by Knox Coen, kindergarten division winner

2018FrontCoversFINAL.indd 1

8/30/17 11:26 AM

Stuff your stockings with

art

The 2018 Cooperative Calendar of Student Art is available at participating electric co-op offices across the state.

Those with calendars available may mention it on their local pages, 5-8.)

But to save you the hassle of driving, copies are also available through the

ART CONTEST

mail from Electric Consumer. (Please see below to order.) A year’s worth of award-winning art from Indiana students grades K-12 makes a great stocking stuffer!

win $200

You could

Order your 2018 calendar today!

ENTER YOUR BEST ARTWORK Fill the pages of the 2019 calendar!

Please send _______ copy (copies) of The Cooperative Calendar of Student Art 2018 (at $6 each) to: NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE & ZIP Price includes shipping and Indiana sales tax.

Send this form and a check payable to “Indiana Electric Cooperatives” to:

Electric Consumer Calendar P.O. Box 24517 Indianapolis, IN 46224

ELIGIBILITY

PRIZES

Indiana public, private or homeschooled students in kindergarten through 12th grade during the 2017-18 school year are eligible to enter the contest.

A first-place artist will be selected for each grade, K-12, and will receive $200. The artwork of each grade level winner will also illustrate the cover and each month of the calendar. Up to nine additional artists will earn honorable mention awards and receive $50. Their artwork will appear in a special section of the calendar. An “artist of the year” will be selected from among the first place winners and receive an additional $100.

Judges will also select merit award winners who will receive certificates.

DETAILS AND DEADLINE A complete set of rules and required entry forms are available at ElectricConsumer.org.

Artwork must be received by March 23, 2018.

Questions? Contact Electric Consumer 317.487.2220 or ec@electricconsumer.org.

DECEMBER 2017

13

product picks

Tech the Halls

3

by JAYNE CANNON Energize your indoor and outdoor holiday decor with

Part 2

fun and festive light-up

4

decorations.

1 5 2 1

2

3

SWEET DRAGON LET IT GLOWMAN POLAR OUTPOST Most people opt for reindeer in their Christmas lawn displays. For a unique twist, how about an 11-foot Animated Inflatable Kaleidoscope Dragon? This goodnatured creature flaps his wings, and his belly lights up. $139.

800-466-3337; homedepot.com

14

DECEMBER 2017

Add a little bling to Frosty, and you get this 48-inch tall LED Lighted Snowman. A gold-tone metal frame and 120 tiny white lights create an eyecatching glow. With his jaunty lighted top hat, he’s ready for the season. $70.

800-462-3966; bedbathandbeyond.com

Turn your yard into a Southern stop for Santa’s sleigh with this 42-inch LED Lighted North Pole Sign. With 60 mini-lights and cheerful colors, it’s a holiday beacon so authentic that a band of elves may camp out on your doorstep. $50.

800-462-3966; bedbathandbeyond.com

6 4

5

6

BRIGHT STAKES

DREAM HOUSE

Greet visitors with a festive path of colorful lights. The Multicolor Shooting Star Pathway Ornament Stakes brighten up dark winter nights with shootingstar effect lights. They come in packs of three; connect added sets for more impact. $30.

800-466-3337; homedepot.com

Enjoy a piece of the holiday favorite Nutcracker Ballet in your home with a lighted Nutcracker House, featuring a twirling ballerina on the rooftop, holiday trimmings, nutcrackers and other characters. $130.

800-548-8696; department56.com

JOY TO YOUR WORLD Add even more joy to the holidays by hanging a cheery red Joy LED Lighted Ornamental on a window or door, inside or out. It comes with hooked suction cups for easy hanging. $15.

800-361-6736; bronners.com

Drug Companies Fear Release of the New AloeCure

ADVERTISEMENT

Big Pharma stands to lose billions as doctors’ recommend drug-free “health cocktail” that adjusts and corrects your body’s health conditions.

by David Waxman Seattle Washington:

Drug company execs are nervous. That’s because the greatest health advance in decades has hit the streets. And analysts expect it to put a huge crimp in “Big Pharma” profits.

So what’s all the fuss about? It’s about a new ingredient that’s changing the lives of people who use it. Some call it “the greatest discovery since penicillin”!

The name of the product is the AloeCure. It’s not a drug. It’s something completely different.

And the product is available to anyone who wants it, at a reasonable price. But demands may force future prices to rise.

TOP DOC WARNS: DIGESTION DRUGS CAN CRIPPLE YOU! Company spokesperson, Dr. Liza Leal; a leading integrative health specialist recommends AloeCure before she decides to prescribe any digestion drug.

Especially after the FDA’s stern warning about long-term use of drugs classified as proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec®, Nexium®, and Prevacid®.

In a nutshell, the FDA statement warned people should avoid taking these digestion drugs for longer than three 14-day treatment periods because there is an increased risk of bone fractures. Many people take them daily and for decades.

Dr. Leal should know. Many patients come to her with bone and joint complaints and she does everything she can to help them. One way for digestion sufferers to help avoid possible risk of tragic joint and bone problems caused by overuse of digestion drugs is to take the AloeCure.

Analysts expect the AloeCure to put a huge crimp in “Big Pharma” profits.

The secret to AloeCure’s “health adjusting” formula is scientifically tested Acemannan, a polysaccharide extracted from Aloe Vera. But not the same aloe vera that mom used to apply to your cuts, scrapes and burns. This is a perfect strain of aloe that is organically grown under very strict conditions. AloeCure is so powerful it begins to benefit your health the instant you take it. It soothes intestinal discomfort and you can avoid the possibility of bone and health damage caused by overuse of digestion drugs.

We all know how well aloe works externally on cuts, scrapes and burns. But did you know Acemannan has many of other health benefits?...

HELPS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM TO CALM INFLAMMATION According to a leading aloe research, when correctly processed for digesting, the Aloe plant has a powerful component for regulating your immune system called Acemannan. So whether it’s damage that is physical, bacterial, chemical or autoimmune; the natural plant helps the body stay healthy.

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Indiana eats

Make memories at the mansion Traditions abound during the holidays.

Timeless traditions

Visions of beautifully adorned trees, decked halls and delicious food impart fond memories.

Holiday traditions are showcased at Tippecanoe Place in South Bend. Built by Clem Studebaker of the famed Studebaker family in the late 1880s, the mansion is now a well-known event venue and finedining establishment. Typical items on the menu include steaks, lobster mac and cheese, and Indiana duckling.

In November, the mansion is transformed into a timeless holiday setting complete with nutcrackers, festive trees and other embellishments.

Throughout December, the venue hosts special events such as a holiday tea, a Sunday brunch with Santa and entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays.

Make the drive to South Bend and build some holiday memories at Tippecanoe Place.

Hand-cut Stockyards Prime Black Angus Steak is just one of the menu items at Tippecanoe Place.

Tippecanoe Place 620 W. Washington St. South Bend, Indiana

574-234-9077 A complete listing of hours and events can be found at tippe.com.

16

DECEMBER 2017

food Peppermint Hot Chocolate Brownie Cookies

by Marilles Mauer, Greensburg

Peppermint

2

/3 cup shortening

1½ cups light brown sugar, packed 1 T. water 1 t. vanilla 2 eggs 1½ cups all-purpose flour 1

/3 cup dark cocoa powder ½ t. salt ¼ t. baking soda

1 cup peppermint crunch baking chips 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips Preheat the oven to 375 F. In a large bowl, cream the shortening and brown sugar.

Mix in the water and vanilla. Then, add the eggs. Mix until combined. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt and baking soda. Gradually add it to the sugar/egg mixture. Stir in the peppermint crunch baking chips and the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto an ungreased baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Bake for 7–9 minutes. (8 minutes was exactly perfect for me.) Let the cookies cool slightly before removing them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cook’s notes: Sometimes the peppermint crunch baking chips can be elusive! Sometimes it’s easier to find the peppermint crunch candies (starlight mints) and chop them into bits yourself. I love the red and white in my holiday cookies. But if you can’t find them, the regular Andes mint baking chips will work well.

Editor’s notes: We sprinkled crushed peppermint candy on the cookies right after taking them out of the oven.

DECEMBER 2017

17

food Peppermint Stick Cocoa

Peppermint Popcorn

by Patsy Frost, Corydon

by Marilles Mauer, Greensburg

1 cup powdered milk

Layer powdered milk, cocoa

1 cup unsweetened cocoa

powder, sugar, salt, chocolate

powder

chips and peppermint candy.

1 cup granulated sugar

Cook’s notes: This mix will fill a 1-quart

½ t. salt

1 cup dark chocolate chips

jar (12 servings), but if your containers

½ cup miniature chocolate chips

¼ cup crushed peppermint pieces

are different sizes, just keep the ratio of

½ cup crushed peppermint

2 t. Christmas sprinkles

ingredients constant.

candy

On the back of the tag, write “Mix con-

Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper

tents in a large bowl. For each serving,

or foil. Spread popcorn evenly along pans.

DARK CHOCOLATE PEPPERMINT POPCORN 10 cups popped popcorn (about 1 microwave bag)

place 1/3 cup cocoa mix in a mug and stir

Put the chocolate chips in a microwave-

in 1 cup boiling water. Store remaining

safe container and heat for 1 minute, stirring

mix in an airtight container.

every 30 seconds. The chocolate should be

F O O D P R E PA R E D B Y EL E C T R IC C ON S U ME R S TA FF P HO TOS BY R IC H AR D G. B IEV E R

melted at this point. If it’s not, microwave for another 10 seconds. Repeat until it’s soft and drizzly. Using a large spoon, drizzle the chocolate over the popcorn using fast motions and creating thin lines of chocolate.

While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle the peppermint and sprinkles over the top. Allow chocolate to harden before moving. Pop trays in freezer to speed up the process.

WHITE CHOCOLATE PEPPERMINT POPCORN 2 bags microwave popcorn, popped 1 (24-oz.) package white bark coating 2 T. shortening ¾ to 1 cup red and green M&Ms ¼ cup finely crushed candy canes (approximately 10 mini candy canes) Place popped popcorn in a large bowl. Melt bark coating and shortening together in microwave per package directions (typically in 30-second intervals, stirring in between). Pour melted coating over popcorn; gently toss with a large spatula to coat popcorn. Sprinkle M&Ms and finely crushed candy canes on top and Correction: The Lots O’ Chocolate Bread from the October 2017 issue requires 1 t. of baking soda.

18

DECEMBER 2017

gently toss again. Spread out on waxed paper to set. Can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days.

cover story Sisters Kyra, left, and Kaiden Keough share laughs with Santa at the Center Grove High School Christmas craft fair in Johnson County last month.

STO RY AN D PHOTOS

BY RI C HARD G . BI E VER

Must be

! a t n Sa Co-op employee carries Christmas year round on his chin and in his heart STORY & P HO T O S BY RICH A RD G . B IE VE R

‘W

ho’s got a beard that’s long and white?”

Larry Schuler’s got a beard that’s long and white.

“Who comes around on a special night?”

Schuler comes around on a special night … (not to

mention nights, days and weeks before then, too).

“Who’s got boots and a suit of red?”

Schuler’s got boots and a suit of red.

“Who wears a long cap on his head?”

Schuler wears a long cap on his head.

Cap on head; suit that’s red; special night; beard that’s white…. Must Schuler be Santa?

That depends on whom you ask. Larry Schuler’s not saying one way or the other. But the kids, young and old, who sprang on and off Santa’s lap at a huge holiday craft fair just south of Indianapolis last month will attest that verily it had to be the real Santa in their midst.

“I’ve been here before, and I SAW him,” insisted 4-year-old Collins Napier. “He has a big beard, and he’s given me lots of presents.”

PLEASE TURN TO THE NEXT PAGE DECEMBER 2017

19

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Santa’s helpers No one is in greater demand this time of year than Santa Claus. Meeting kids at the malls and in homes, having photos taken and hearing wish lists, riding in Christmas parades, visiting hospitals and shut-ins and making TV appearances around the world can spread even the jolliest and portliest fellow pretty thin.

Everyone knows about the colony of elves at the North Pole who keep Santa and Mrs. Claus on schedule throughout November and December. But an army of volunteers stationed at all points south also make sure Santa and the missus stay on their appointed rounds.

Two of these certified “Santa helpers” are husband and wife team Larry and Trish Schuler. The couple, high school sweethearts who’ve been married for 43 years, live in — where else? — Santa Claus, Indiana. Larry’s day job is manager of purchasing at Dubois REC in Jasper. He’s worked there 44 years. Since moving in 2015 to Santa’s company town in Spencer County, Trish

Santa and Mrs. Claus greet 8-year-old Cana Guilfoy in the foyer at Center Grove High School near Greenwood last month. The North Pole residents relied on “helpers,” Larry and Trish Schuler of Santa Claus, Indiana, to pose for photos and meet and greet folks at the craft fair attended by 5,500 people.

has become an administrative assistant somewhere; it’s up to you to decide who

at St. Nicholas Catholic Church.

the real Santa is. I can’t tell you.’

This is the sixth season the

“Children are very perceptive,” he

Schulers will be helping “the Claus,” spreading Christmas spirit. They have 65

“

appearances booked.

Their farthest from home was that giant Christmas craft fair in early November near Indianapolis.

Some 5,500 people passed by Santa’s

I am the ‘Spirit of Christmas.’ I represent loving and giving.

chair that day.

While Larry keeps his long white beard meticulously coiffed year round

added. “They will assess your voice, your

”

to look like Santa,

Santa lore. To further prep for the season, the Schulers attended the Charles W. Howard Santa School in Midland,

mannerisms. They

Michigan, for three days in October. It

look into your eyes

was Larry’s fifth and Trish’s third trip

the whole time.”

to the internationally renowned Santa

Larry said the

institute where Santa’s helpers brush up

greatest joy for him

on all things Clausian — mannerisms,

comes when a child

traditions, protocol and more — to portray

has sized him up

Santa and Mrs. Claus in consistent yet

and renders his or

natural and individual ways.

her verdict: “A lot of

Larry Schuler (as St. Nick)

Quips like that come from studying

For the over 100 Santas and Mrs.

times, they tell me

Clauses who attended the 80th annual

they believe I am

training, it’s also a chance to mentor

the real Santa. I tell

one another and to share best practices,

them that I am the

experiences and kinship.

‘Spirit of Christmas.’

he said he never lets on. “When a child

I represent loving and giving. And they

Mid-life turning point

asks me if I’m Santa Claus, sometimes

accept that.”

Larry and Trish Schuler have always

when I’m in the suit, sometimes when

While coyly dodging the direct

loved Christmas. It was one of the things

I’m just out and about, I’ll say, ‘Well, Santa

question, if you ask Larry his age, he’ll

that connected them way back when

has a lot of helpers because he can’t be

say 61, but he might also add with a wink,

they started dating at Jasper High School.

everywhere. But the real Santa is out here

“As St. Nicholas, I am 17 hundred and 47.”

“We love snow. We love the colors

20

DECEMBER 2017

and lights of Christmas … the whole idea of the first gift of Christmas — Jesus,” Larry said. “This time of year is when most people let down the barriers somewhat, and your family comes together. It’s just an enjoyable, happy time of year.”

The two always have been one of those couples that others say go overboard with the decorations. Trish said her aunt used to be the same. She had a “Christmas room” she’d leave up all year.

“I have loved Christmas since I was old enough to know what Christmas was,” Larry said. “I was lucky enough to marry someone who shared my enthusiasm for Christmas and the decorations and the trees, the whole thing of Christmas — other than Santa. That was not my thing.

I didn’t have good experiences with Santa when I was a child.”

That bad experience came one Christmas Eve when Larry was around 8 and his sister was 11. Their mom arranged to have Santa visit in person.

But she had to work late, leaving them with their father, a stern and sometimes emotionally abusive man, Larry said.

That afternoon, their dad told Larry and his sister they’d been bad. He cut a switch from a tree in the yard and put it by the front door. He told them that when Santa came, they could let him in. But he was going to have Santa whip them.

T he ‘quotable’ Claus ‘Christmas Magic’ explains many of Santa’s closely guarded secrets Since Santa’s clientele is mostly inquisitive youngsters, he’s been asked many questions over the course of his long illustrious career. Thanks to Larry Schuler, a certified “Santa Helper” at Dubois REC, Santa has provided answers to some of the oft-asked questions.

FAVORITE COOKIE? “Santa loves all cookies. They’re all good.

But if you want to get that special one, Santa really likes white chocolate macadamia nut cookies.”

FAVORITE CHRISTMAS SONG? “‘Carol of the Bells’ is Santa’s favorite and is his cell phone ring tone. But ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ is also a favorite.”

HOW DOES SANTA ENTER HOUSES THAT HAVE NO CHIMNEY? “Santa carries a ‘magic key’ on his belt that works only on Christmas Eve. If there is no chimney, it allows him in through your door. And he always re-locks it on his way out.”

WHY ARE THE REINDEER SO SELDOM SEEN? “They are very bashful, and ‘Christmas Magic’ keeps the reindeer hidden from everyone. Otherwise, people would be after them and want to see them and take pictures, and Santa wouldn’t be able to get anywhere.”

When Santa came that evening, he knocked and knocked. But neither Larry nor his sister wanted to answer. Santa eventually gave up, leaving their gifts on the front porch. When their mom came home and found out what happened, he recalled, it was not a good Christmas. “I was afraid of Santa because I was always told he was a disciplinarian who would whip you when you were bad.”

When their two adult children were little, Larry and Trish did invite Santa to their home and did the traditional visits.

“But I never had any desire to portray Santa,” Larry said. “Never.”

It wasn’t until January of 2012 that Santa entered Larry’s life for good

HOW DOES SANTA GET EVERYWHERE IN ONE NIGHT? “The world has 24 time zones, and with Christmas Magic, Santa is able to slow down time enough that he is able to get all the toys delivered to all those who believe.... Plus, we have satellite toy stations and portals where Santa can restock the sleigh without having to travel back to the North Pole.”

SANTA’S ADVICE FOR STAYING ON THE “NICE LIST”?

“The best way to stay on the ‘Nice List’ is to give lots of hugs.

That lets people know you love them, and it’s the easiest way to show them. It doesn’t cost you anything, and it’s a great gift.

Even when you’re mad at someone, like sister or brother or mom or dad, or someone is mad at you, go up and give that person a hug right then. They’ll wonder what’s going on.

But it’ll make things better really fast.”

— meaning both permanently and PLEASE TURN TO THE NEXT PAGE

Follow “SANTA & MRS. CLAUS, SANTA CLAUS, INDIANA” on Facebook

DECEMBER 2017

21

H ‘ o, ho, ho’s’ and other requests Folks sometimes have interesting

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE positively. That’s when the then 55-yearold clean-shaven, short-haired Schuler began letting his whiskers grow.

By April of that year, with spring in

things on their Christmas list. Here are

the air, he was ready to shave off the full

several memorable ones Larry and

winter beard. But in place of the rusty

Trish Schuler have heard.

beard he’d occasionally grown in his

A TURKEY FOR THE FAMILY

younger years, this beard had come in

“We had a child who wanted a live

already begun. “Several people started

snow white, and the comparisons had

pet turkey. Well, it’s like with the

telling me I looked like Santa, and I ought

puppies. You say, ‘The elves don’t

to consider doing that.”

make puppies or turkeys, but Santa

Coincidentally, a Santa convention

has some connections. He will

was taking place just then in Santa Claus,

definitely have to ask your parents

and the Schulers checked it out. When

if it’s OK, and if they’re OK with it,

Larry told a portrait photographer at the

then I will to try to get that for you.”

convention he had never been a Santa

A LUMP OF COAL “One child asked for coal. He liked to help is dad out in the workshop, and the workshop had a coal-fired heater.

He wanted coal to help fire the stove.”

THE GIFT OF PRAYER “The hard one is if grandpa or someone is sick or just passed away. “‘Can you bring them back?’

“As Santa, you say, ‘Only God can do that. But I’ll tell you what I can do’ — and you have a little book along, and you get that out — ‘I’m going to write down in here your grandpa’s name. Tonight when I’m done, I will say a prayer for him. But I can’t bring him back.”

MAGIC PORSCHE “We were leaving the Seelbach Hotel in Louisville after a ‘Breakfast with Santa,’ and the valet brought our car around.

The driver, who was probably in his 40s, got out and said, ‘Santa, I need a new car for Christmas.’

“I said, ‘Really? What would you like?’ “‘I’d kinda a red Porsche,’ he said.

“On the console of my Tahoe, I had a little red Matchbox Porsche. I grabbed that and said, ‘Here you go! You water this three times a day, and in a week, it’ll be a full-size car.’

“And he looked at me and said, ‘How did you DO that?’”

22

DECEMBER 2017

before, the photographer gave him a Santa hat and coat to try on for looks.

“I was, ‘Wow!’ I didn’t realize how much I did look like Santa!”

“I told him that’s a God-given gift he needed to do something with,” Trish said.

“That was probably my main motivation,” added Larry. “If God made me look this way, then he must want me to do this. So, it’s a privilege to portray Santa.”

The Santa at Holiday World theme park put Larry in touch with another Santa in New Albany who became his mentor. That man, his wife, and another couple who portray Santa and Mrs. Claus visited the Schulers at their home. Over that first five hour visit, they asked questions and talked about the role — that really is like a calling. That’s when Larry began seeing Santa in a whole new light, almost like when the Grinch had his epiphany. “Santa’s not a disciplinarian. Santa’s just here to spread love. That’s all. That’s what it’s all about.”

Still, Larry was skeptical he’d fit in Santa’s boots. While Santa is a largerthan-life character, Larry feared his 6-foot-5 frame might be too large. “I was afraid my height would scare children. I thought Santa is supposed to be a little ol’ elf, short, jolly and round and all that.”

In addition to being tall, Larry said he was shy. But those two traits may have best prepared the soft-spoken Schuler for the Santa role — as the loving and

Larry Schuler shows off the special “class ring” his wife, Trish, gave him for Christmas last year.

The custom-made gold ring has a likeness of Santa on one side, and the word “Noel” and an image of the Nativity and Star of Bethlehem are cut into the other. The top is adorned with a Christmas wreath and ribbon and holly designs surrounding a deep red garnet stone. He said the ring is to remind him of the reason for the season — the birth of Christ — and to keep that Christmas spirit in his heart year round.

“This is the way I should have been all along. I should have been more open.

I should’ve been more giving and loving to people,” Larry said, adding, “Not running around hugging everybody — I don’t mean that — but just more open and accepting.”

Larry said he has pondered the question that the beard lets him be someone he’s not. “But my true self is behind all this,” he answers. “I just never let it come out. When you get in a situation, instantly you have to react.

I wouldn’t be able to do what I need to do or say what I need to say to help that person in that situation if this wasn’t me.

So deep down, I believe I changed, and it’s for the better.”

Portraying Santa emphasizes to him that Christmas is not about Santa. “It’s about the gift we got that first Christmas — that’s Jesus that

Santa Larry displays his diploma from the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School.

the heavenly father gave to us. Santa

giving spirit of Christmas. “I was always a

the season is really all about for support.

listener. I talked very little. I just listened

“Just before I get there, I say, ‘Jesus, you

to what other people had to say, and I

need to take over. Just come in because

would ask questions about them. Now I

the children loved you, and you always

Santa. But Larry turns it back on them. “I

realize it was a way to keep the attention

welcomed the children up around you.

try telling them, ‘You are Santa.’

off of me because of my size.”

So help me to know

After attending his first Santa school in Michigan in 2012, Larry was hooked.

That first Christmas, Larry and Trish booked only four appearances. The first

what to say.’ And it all just comes. It’s just amazing.”

Church camp’s Breakfast with Santa.

Becoming Santa

Some 400 kids were there to see the man

Wearing the beard and

of the hour. “I was very nervous that I

essentially representing

was going to say something wrong or

Santa year round does

do something wrong,” Larry said. But it

put added pressure on

went off without a hitch, and he and Mrs.

him, Larry said. “You’re

Claus hitched their sleigh on Dasher,

always concerned about

Dancer, Prancer and Vixen and the rest

your appearance. You

and have been dashing away ever since.

want to watch your

“We didn’t know what to expect

language. You don’t

was at the Santa Claus United Methodist

represents that spirit of giving.”

He said some older kids occasionally will try to trick him when asking if he’s

“

‘You are Santa.…

“They will look at you, ‘Well, how is that?’

“And I’ll say, ‘Do you remember

You have Santa in

that feeling you

your heart.… You are

you picked a few

giving and you are loving. That’s how the spirit of Santa lives on in you.’

”

got when maybe flowers for your mom? Or you actually did give someone a gift? Or you gave a heartfelt hug to someone?

Remember how good that feels?

when we started this. But we get back

want to say anything

so much more love than we give,” Larry

distasteful. You never

said. “Since our grandchildren are in

drink alcohol in public. I used to get done

Texas, this is kind of our fill in. We get to

mowing the yard and have a cold beer. I

be around all these children the whole

don’t even do that anymore,” he said.

what you’re doing: you are giving and

His friends and co-workers have

you are loving. That’s how the spirit of

season, and it’s just wonderful.”

Even now, in his sixth season, Santa

noticed the change in him over the years.

Larry still gets a little nervous before an

“You’re sure not the way you used to be,”

event, but he turns to the one he says

people will say. He hopes that’s true.

That’s what Santa does. Santa gives

love and is love. So, in your way, you

have Santa in your heart. And that is

Santa lives on in you.’”

RICHARD G. BIEVER is senior editor of Electric Consumer.

DECEMBER 2017

23

2017

Youth Power & Hope Award winners Community service can mean many things — for instance, collecting various items for those in need, raising money for charities and causes, bringing joy to people hungry for personal interaction, and donating “sweat equity” to build homes for the less fortunate. This type of community service has no age requirements as this year’s Youth Power and Hope Award recipients can attest to.

Five winners, all middle school students, are being honored at the Indiana Electric Cooperatives Annual Meeting on Dec. 5 for their philanthropic efforts. Through a partnership with the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, they also attended the Power of Children Symposium at the museum on Nov. 11 to learn how they can continue and even expand their efforts in the future.

The Youth Power and Hope Awards program began in 2009. Since then, 45 young people have been recognized for helping to make the world a better place.

EMMA GILLARD Knox

Though she’s only in sixth grade, Knox Community Middle School student Emma Gillard understands that her community service projects directly impact others. “Helping people is one of the most important things in life,” she said. That’s why she’s so involved in a number of projects in her northern Indiana community. For the past two years, she has participated in Relay for Life and spearheaded a campaign to collect pop tabs for the Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapo-

stuffed animals. “Most of them had no family nearby,” Gillard said. “I sat with them, talked with them and understood them.”

This past year, Gillard and her family cleaned up their community park in San Pierre simply because the local folks love and enjoy the park.

JOZELYN HOLMES Berne

In her award

too, during her school breaks. While there, she makes it a point to interact with and bring cheer to all the residents — and as a result she’s come to think of them as her surrogate grandparents, and they’ve accepted her as their grandchild. “I hope I give them as much joy as they bring me,” Holmes wrote in her award application.

No need to worry, Leyman points out.

“Every time she is here, she is making a difference, and I couldn’t be more proud of her accomplishments.”

recommenda-

In recognition of her dedication to the

tion letter for Jo-

elderly, Holmes won the Leading Age

zelyn Holmes, Swiss

Indiana Volunteer of the Year Award.

Village retirement community Director of Development and Volunteers Jen

SARAH KOUNS

lis’ fundraising efforts.

Leyman describes her as “a person with an amazing heart and a gift for

Zionsville

She spent last Christmas visiting

service and care.”

Sarah Kouns

Holmes, a South Adams Middle School

caught the

residents of local nursing homes and hospitals, singing songs to them and giving them homemade cards and

24

DECEMBER 2017

eighth grader, faithfully visits Swiss Village every Saturday and Thursdays,

community service “bug” in preschool when

she helped her mom set up for her

high school how to raise lambs for

Mom’s Day In programs.

show in a fun day filled with hands-on

Nowadays, the Zionsville Middle School sixth grader keeps busy with a wide array of projects. As her 4-H club’s community service leader since 2015, she’s collected over 100 stuffed animals to give to kids impacted by fires; made Valentine cards for Wheeler Mission Ministries and nursing home residents; and collected over 100 hats, scarves and gloves for Wheeler Mission.

She’s also collected socks for

activities, photos, and a pizza party.

Myers also regularly babysits for the local chapter of Mothers of Preschoolers, volunteers for the Love in the Name of Christ of Boone County, and has packed lunches for the Shalom House of Boone County’s Sack Lunch

build houses for those in need. During the trips to Mexico and the Dominican Republic, Ogden said, “I learned to be kind, communicate in different ways, be thankful for what you have, have fun and spend your time wisely! Be nice! People will notice.”

Program.

Ogden is active in improving her com-

KAYELEE OGDEN

drives, helping out in nursing homes

Greensburg

Boone County’s Love Inc. and

For North De-

collected pet supplies for the Boone

catur Elementary

County Humane Society. She’s

School sixth grader

spearheaded all these efforts and

Kayelee Ogden, community service tran-

delivered these donations as well.

scends her hometown of Greensburg.

Kouns is motivated to help out be-

on two life-changing mission trips to

munity by recycling, donating to food and donating Thanksgiving meals to the elderly. “I love some of their reactions when we show up at their door and hand them a whole meal,” she said.

“These incredible experiences allow me to make a difference in the lives of others,” Ogden said.

She and her family have volunteered

cause she cares about her community. “I’m giving something back to my community. ... I’m doing something about it.”

ADELINE MYERS Lebanon

“No matter how old you are or what resources you have, you can make your community a better place,” Adeline Myers wrote in her Youth Power and Hope Award application. The home-schooled eighth grader from Lebanon has done just that through her various volunteer projects.

Her favorite project is L.A.M.B. (Learning and Making Buddies) Day, something her 4-H sheep club has conducted for five years. Through the project, she teaches service learning students from the local

Sarah Kourns, a Zionsville Middle School sixth grader and Youth Power and Hope Award winner, has collected over 100 stuffed animals to give to kids impacted by fires.

DECEMBER 2017

25

calendar NORTHWEST

131

“A CHRISTMAS STORY COMES HOME,” Hammond (Lake), Indiana Welcome Center. Share with your family scenes from the holiday movie classic. Free. 219-989-7979. southshorecva.com/ achristmasstory

2

THE WHY STORE, Delphi (Carroll), Delphi Opera House. Popular Hoosier band performs. 7:30-9:30 pm.

Tickets, $20-$45. 765-5644300. delphioperahouse.org

3

“A SENTIMENTAL CHRISTMAS VARIETY SHOW,” Rochester (Fulton), Rochester High School. Fundraiser for Rochester Performing Arts.

Admission. 5-7 pm. 574-835-1455.

2-3

KOUTS CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE, Kouts (Porter).

Tour homes, churches and businesses. Free. Lunch served on Saturday. 219-405-1452. koutsevents.com

CENTRAL

113

VERY MERY CHRISTMAS, Greenfield (Hancock). Enjoy Christmas in historic downtown Greenfield. Features holiday movie and horse-drawn carriage rides. Admission. 317-358-5284. greenfieldmainstreet.org

2

GINGERBREAD CHRISTMAS, Plainfield (Hendricks), Plainfield High School. Over 100 vendors at this craft and novelty show. $5 admission. 317-221-3600. plainfieldtrikappa.wixsite. com/home

31

NEW YEAR’S EVE CLEBRATION, Kokomo (Howard), Courthouse Square, 10:30 pm-Midnight. Free. Includes ball drop, music, fireworks.

765-457-5301. greaterkokomo.com

2-3

ANNUAL PURDUE CHRISTMAS SHOW, West Lafayette (Tippecanoe), Purdue University Elliott Hall of Music. Admission charge.

765-494-3941. purdue.edu/ pmo

SOUTHWEST

1-3

O’TANNENBAUM DAYS, Jasper (Dubois), Courthouse Square and citywide. Santa, carriage rides, food, craft show and more. 812482-6866. visitduboiscounty.com

2

FARM TOY SHOW, Orleans (Orange), Robinson Auction and Gathering, 8620 N. State Road 37. 9 am-4 pm. Sponsored by Tri-County Tractor Club. tri-countytractorclub@yahoo. com

26

DECEMBER 2017

30

SOUNDS OF SUMMER: A BEACH BOYS TRIBUTE, Mitchell (Lawrence), Mitchell Opera House. Tickets: $18 (adult), $10 (children). mitchell operahouse. com.

DECEMBER NORTHEAST

1-3

WINTERFEST, Portland (Jay), Citywide. Celebrate the holidays with various activities. 260-726-4481. jaycountychamber.com

1-3

WINDMILLL WINTER WONDERLAND, Kendallville (Noble), 732 S. Allen Chapel Road (C.R. 1000 E.). 5:308:30 pm. Admission charge (under 12 free). 260-318-0642.

Also takes place Dec. 8-10. midamericawindmillmuseum. org

2829

SHIPSHEWANA ICE FESTIVAL, Shipshewana (LaGrange), Downtown. Features ice carvers and a chili cookoff. Festival pins for sale at participating merchants and at cook-off. 260-631-9675. shipeshewana.com

SOUTHEAST

2

LIGHT UP LANESVILLE, Lanesville (Harrison), 7346 Main Street. 3-7 pm. Free. Vendor craft booths and Santa/Mrs. Claus. 812-952-2057. lanesville-ct@mw.twcbc.com

2

HOLIDAYS UNDER THE SPIRES, Oldenburg (Franklin), Town Hall.

Entertainment. 866-647-6555. holidaysunderthespires. com

9

WINTER WINE WALK, Corydon (Harrison), Downtown. Sample wine and do some holiday shopping in historic Corydon. Admission charge. 812-738-2138. thisisindiana.org

2-4

CHRISTMAS WALK, Metamora (Franklin), Townwide. Santa, carolers and lanterns along the canal.

Free. 765-647-1212. Event also takes place Dec. 9-11, 16-18. metamoraindiana.com

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

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

To add events to Calendar, please use the “Submit and Event” form under the “Talk to Us” or “Calendar” buttons at electricconsumer.org; or mail your info to: Calendar, Electric Consumer, P.O. Box 24517, Indianapolis, IN 46224. Please submit info two months before the date of the event.

DECEMBER 2017

27

outdoors

Deer Crossing

Don’t hunt deer with your vehicle B Y JACK S PAU L D IN G

T

his fall, two family members unintentionally “tagged” and brought home a deer, doing it the

hard way. They hit the deer with their vehicles. Both are experienced drivers who have driven in deer country for

• Deer often travel in groups, so if you see one, another is likely nearby.

• Be especially careful in areas where you have seen deer before.

• Use high beams when there is no on-

caution should be exercised, but drivers tend to get

years. Thankfully, there were no personal

coming traffic; scan for deer’s illumi-

accustomed to such

injuries, and both deer were salvaged

nated eyes or dark silhouettes along the

signage, which can reduce their effec-

and processed. To help avoid a similar

side of the road.

tiveness over time.

situation, there are some precautions you can take.

As the days shorten and the breeding season for deer continues the chance of encountering one while driving increases significantly. Nearly 50 percent of all vehicle accidents involving white-tailed

• Be especially cautious where agricultural fields are divided from forested areas by roads.

• If you see a deer, slow your vehicle, even if the animal is far away.

• Exercise extreme caution along wood-

deer occur between October and the end

lot edges, at hills or on blind turns.

of December, according to deer research

• Brake when you see a deer in your

biologist Joe Caudell of the Indiana DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife.

path, but stay in your lane; most serious crashes occur when drivers try to

The risk of deer-vehicle accidents can be

miss a deer but hit something else.

minimized by practicing defensive driv-

• Do not rely on deer whistles or other

ing, Caudell said. The Insurance Information Institute provides the following information to reduce your chances of colliding with a deer: • Deer are most active between sunset to midnight and during the hours shortly before and after sunrise, so be especially attentive at these times.

28

DECEMBER 2017

devices. They have not been proven to reduce deer-vehicle collisions.

According to Caudell, drivers should make a point to pay attention to traffic signs warning of deer crossings.

Deer-crossing signs are useful for notifying motorists of areas where additional

If you end up hitting a deer, remain calm and be careful.

“Although gentle in nature, deer that are injured or stressed can be extremely dangerous,” Caudell said. “They have sharp hooves and a powerful kick. Do not approach the animal unless you are positive it has died.”

Caudell said deer can be found anywhere in Indiana, including urban settings, so drivers should be on the lookout no matter where they are.

JACK SPAULDING is a state outdoors writer and a consumer of RushShelby Energy living along the Flatrock River in Moscow.

Readers with questions or comments can write to him in care of Electric Consumer or email jackspaulding@hughes. net.

safety

Holiday safety When the weather is cold, keep electrical safety in mind.

Winter is full of holiday festivities, and, unfortunately, home fires. Avoid the hazards that are all too common during this time of year with some helpful holiday and winter electrical safety tips!

During these winter holiday months, everyone breaks out their space heaters, electric blankets and lots of holiday decorations. It’s no wonder that more home fires occur during winter than during any other part of the year.

“Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States,” said Tom VanParis, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives. “More than 65,000 home fires are attributed to heating equipment each year. These fires result in hundreds of deaths, thousands of injuries and millions of dollars in property damage.”

If not used properly, portable electric space heaters and electric blankets can lead to fire and electric shock. Beware of space heaters without adequate safety features, space heaters placed near combustibles, or space heaters that are improperly plugged in. Never fold electric blankets or use them while sleeping. Inspect them for dark, charred, or

frayed spots and check to see if the electric cord is cracked or frayed. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels carefully before using them in your home.

Decorating for safety • When shopping for lights, electric decorations and extension cords, purchase only the ones that are ULlisted.

• Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.

During this time of year, many families are anxious to get into the holiday spirit. To keep you and your family safe, be sure to consider electrically-safe options. Always choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant, and be aware of what you’re buying at the store. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.

Using indoor lighting outdoors where it could be damp can cause electrocution or be a fire hazard. When hanging up festive lights and decorations, use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.

• Read and follow the manufacturers’

Adding lights to your tree or around the house is a popular tradition, but be sure to read manufacturer’s instructions. Knowing the number of light strands to connect endto-end is key to safe decorating – as a general rule, it’s three. When powering these lights, give your electrical outlets a break by not overloading them. Once your home is lit up for the whole neighborhood to see, be sure to turn off all of these lights before going to bed or leaving the house. This will ensure the safety of your family and home. Be aware of electrical dangers that may occur, and preserve the holiday spirit all season long.

circuits protected by ground fault

instructions.

• If planning to decorate outdoors, make sure the decorations are suitable for outdoor use. Putting indoor-only products outside in the weather can result in electric shock and fire hazards.

• Outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuit interrupters.

• Exercise caution when decorating near power lines. Keep yourself and your equipment at least 10 feet from power lines.

• Always unplug lights before changing bulbs, replacing fuses or making any other repairs.

DECEMBER 2 017

29

backyard

Ask Rosie

by B. Rosie Lerner

Amaryllis is commonly sold as a potted plant in full bloom or as a bulb kit. For

A

maryllis is a popular holiday gift

plants already in bloom, the flowers will

plant, but it may have the lucky

last longer if you keep the plant in a cool

recipient wondering about its

location around 65 degrees F.

proper care.

If you receive an amaryllis bulb kit, you

Amaryllis is a tender bulb that won’t

just might have blooms in time for Valen-

survive outdoors even in the mildest of

tine’s Day! The bulbs will have been rested

Indiana winters. But it can be grown in-

and pre-chilled by the greenhouse grower

doors to provide a dramatic show of color

so that they will be ready to grow and

during dreary winter months. The showy

bloom at home. Plant bulbs in pots that

flowers range from crimson, scarlet, rose,

are only a little larger in diameter than the

lavender, white or bi-colored combina-

bulbs themselves. Be sure pots provide

tions. Though each plant may produce

drainage so excess water can escape. Pour

only one cluster of two to four blooms,

a layer of good-quality potting soil mix

individual blossoms can reach up to 8

into the bottom of the container and

inches in diameter at their peak.

place the bulb so that the pointed end is facing up. Water thoroughly to establish good bulb-to-soil contact.

Then place in a sunny windowsill in a cool location, preferably 55-65 degrees F. The plants should bloom in 6-8 weeks.

After the flowers fade you can keep amaryllis as a houseplant to re-bloom next year.

Cut the faded flower stalk off at its base, place near a sunny window, and water and fertilize as you would other

Did yo?u Amaryllises are know native to Peru and South Africa. Its name is from Greek Amarullis, a name for a shepherd girl in pastoral poetry, based on the Greek word which means “to sparkle.”

30

P HO TO BY P URDUE ARBO RE TUM

How to care for your Christmas amaryllis

DECEMBER 2017

houseplants. After all danger of frost is past in the spring, you can plunge the pot into the soil outdoors in an east- or west-facing location.

Late in summer, gradually cut back on watering until the leaves fade completely and the soil is dry. At this time, the bulb should be dormant. Dig the pot out of the ground and bring it back indoors. Keep the bulb in its pot and store in a cool, dark location about 40-55 degrees F. After about two months of rest, water the soil and set the pot in a sunny window and resume normal care.

Q: We have two ginkgo trees in

our front yard; one is male, one female. Therefore, we have the fruit. The trees are roughly 25 feet tall, so it would be difficult to spray them before they make fruit. Do you have any suggestions on how to neutralize the awful smell that the ripe fruit has? They cover our front yard and the sidewalk, so it’s a mess. We continually clean them up — but the smell! They are beautiful trees, but September and October, not so good. Thank you for any suggestions!

A:

J.F., Indianapolis, IN

Unfortunately, I’m not aware of anything that can effectively neutralize the odor. The fruits of the ginkgo tree are notoriously malodorous! The species has separate male and female trees, as you’ve noted; the goal is to plant only males to avoid fruit production. Timing of fruit prevention sprays is critical, and thorough coverage is not easy with such large trees. The female trees produce flowers that are inconspicuous, petalless, green, stick-like structures and are very easy to miss. And even if timed well, the fruit prevention sprays are very unlikely to be 100 percent effective in preventing fruit.

The only way to prevent fruit is to remove the female tree. You would not be the first to have cut down an otherwise fine specimen due to this fruiting problem. Wish I had a better prognosis!

B. ROSIE LERNER is the Purdue Extension consumer horticulturist and is a consumer of Tipmont REMC. Questions about gardening issues may be sent to “Ask Rosie,” Electric Consumer, P.O. Box 24517, Indianapolis, IN 46224; or use our “Talk to Us” form online at ElectricConsumer.org.

product recalls

Snow globes deemed to be a fire hazard Moonrays Brand Products has recalled globe and snow globe stake lights because of a fire hazard. Light refraction through the stake lights can singe or melt items in contact with or in the immediate proximity, posing a fire hazard. This recall involves Moonrays large mystic globe and winter-themed snow globe stake lights. The globes were sold at home improvement and hardware stores nationwide and online from August 2016 through March 2017 for about $20.

The lawn and garden decorations are plastic globes mounted on a metal stake that can be inserted into the ground. Water and antifreeze allow glitter inside the globe to float. The winter-themed light stake is framed by a snowman, Christmas tree, Santa Claus or reindeer. The solar powered lights also contain LED bulbs that run on rechargeable batteries.

Southwire has received nine reports of incidents including heat-related damage to nearby property such as grass, deck posts and house siding. No injuries have been reported.

Call 888-847-8709; or go to www.southwire.com or www.moonrays.com and click on “Product Recall” for more information.

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

1

other recalls of note:

Kidde recalls almost 38 million fire extinguishers Kidde has issued a recall on a brigade of almost 38 million fire extinguishers sold nationwide dating back to 1973. The fire extinguishers can become clogged or require excessive force to discharge and can fail to activate during a fire emergency. In addition, the nozzle can detach with enough force to pose an impact hazard. One death has been reported.

This recall involves two styles of Kidde fire extinguishers: plastic handle fire extinguishers and push-button Pindicator fire extinguishers.

1

Call 855-271-0773 to request a free replacement and for instructions on returning recalled units; or go online at www.kidde.com and click on “Product Safety Recall” for more information and a complete list of the recalled models.

2

Fire hazard expands dishwasher recall BSH Home Appliances has expanded a recall of several brands of dishwashers because the power cord can overheat and catch fire. This recall expansion involves Bosch, Gaggenau, Jenn-Air and Thermador brand dishwashers sold in stainless steel, black, white and custom panel.

The units were sold nationwide from January 2013 through May 2015.

Call BSH Home Appliances toll-free at 888-965-5813.

3

Chipper may chuck more than wood Frontier Wood Chippers have been recalled by John Deere because of an injury hazard. The wood chipper’s blades can break and be thrown from the chipper, posing a risk to operators or bystanders. This recall involves 25 specific units with model numbers WC1103, WC1105 and WC1205. The chippers were sold at John Deere dealers nationwide in July and August 2017. John Deere is contacting all purchasers directly.

Call 800-537-8233; or go to www.deere.com and select Product Recall Information on the drop-down menu under Services & Support.

2

3 DECEMBER 2017

31

Hoosier Energy news

GETTYIMAGES.COM/DIGIPHOTO

Five tips to secure your home Ways you can protect your house while traveling for the holidays

put trash cans away the next day. This

Consider using a simple

helps keep up appearances as if you are

wi-fi camera system.

home.

Keep social media posts at Hoosier Energy believes in being safe while at work and home. That is why we have compiled some ways to protect your property when you are not at home or if you’re traveling this holiday season.

bay while you are away.

If you post how great your vacation is while you are away, you can alert potential thieves that your home is a good target. Remove this risk and hold

Ask a friend to stop by your home while you are away.

off on posting those photos and videos

Having someone visually inspect your

Take time to stop your

property while you are away is a strong

mail/newspaper service.

way to keep your home protected.

This inspection doesn’t have to include checking every door and window. A brief look to be sure everything is in order is

until you get home.

Those looking for homes to break into look for simple clues such as newspapers on the driveway, packages

sufficient.

on the porch or a mailbox full of mail.

A smart request is to have this person

while you are gone helps avoid giving

place your trash out for the week and

32

DECEMBER 2017

Holding these services or deliveries clues that no one is home.

If you have wireless internet at your home, consider using a wireless camera system to monitor movement in your home. These devices can be placed inside a home in an area that overlooks common areas. The device will send a live video feed through an app on your phone. Try to find a system that provides an alert, such as a text message, if movement is detected.

Keep the snow at bay.

If someone wants to break into your home, they could travel down a street a day or two after snowfall and see what house has not been shoveled and has no tire tracks or footsteps in the snow.

That makes your house a target. Be prepared to have snow removed.

reader submissions

O Christmas

Patsy Frost’s father always cut a cedar tree from the farm to be their Christmas tree. They would string beads, ornaments and silver tinsel on the tree, thinking it was beautiful. She said this little tree with the top broken represents many wonderful Christmases.

tree!

To celebrate the holiday season, we asked for your photos of your decorated Christmas trees.

Carol Cirtin said she tears up every year when she decorates her tree with special ornaments. She taught third grade for 38 years, and many of the ornaments are gifts from former students.

Rita Purcell’s tree in the photo above is completely decorated with snowman ornaments, except for the angel on top! One is made from a garden trowel with a snowman painted on it, one is made from a wooden spool and another snowman is painted on a piece of bark. Her husband, Jack, says she’s never met a snowman that she didn’t like.

DECEMBER 2017

33

profile

Raising canes Hooked on a feeling at McCord Candies in Lafayette

BY NICK ROGERS It’s difficult to imagine a colorful, crunchy candy cane ever resembling “hot earwax,” as Tai Kralis jokingly calls it. But that’s just the initial melt-down of sugar and water.

Kralis, Noah Suitors and other McCord Candies employees eventually work their magic on handpulled candy canes, a tradition at the iconic downtown shop at 536 Main St. in Lafayette.

“We’re one of five stores left in the United States to pull their own candy canes,” said owner Ken Bootsma, a residential Tipmont REMC customer who bought McCord Candies in June with his wife, Denise. “Last year, 47,000 candy canes were made.”

Ken and Denise have remodeled the space — a candy shop since 1912 — but haven’t changed the time-tested candy cane recipe, secret ingredient and all. They also sell candy cane chips (popular to melt in coffee) and hot chocolate mix with candy cane flavor.

Kralis and Suitors are among those helping the Bootsmas learn the process in their first holiday season. They know how to warm, knead, hook, pull, twist, cut, shape and bag like the backs of their dyed-red hands.

“We generally do three to four batches a night and get 1,000 canes,” said Kralis, a senior studying organizational leadership at Purdue University.

Get a look for yourself. Kitchen tours are available from 6 to 8 p.m. on Fridays and from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 23. Prices range from $2 (the tour and a cane) to $7 (which includes lunch).

“Kids’ eyes go wide, and for adults, it’s not what they think it’s going to be,” Kralis said.

“I love the memories,” Suitors said. “Grandparents bring grandkids and talk about how they remember coming here when they were little. It’s a great Lafayette tradition and institution.”

Nick Rogers is communications coordinator for Purdue Extension.

All candy canes start as a golden glob of melted-down sugar and water.

34

DECEMBER 2017

After the candy is cooled, it must be pulled and stretched thin for the cane-making process.

The portion of the candy dyed red is prepped.

The red and white portions are overlaid in front of a flame to keep the temperature just right.