Henry County REMC — November 2019 Indiana Connection

Board district change info to be mailed to you soon.

Henry County REMC’s

Indiana’s pages 21–24

‘Up north’ Toboggan Pokagon for a glacial rush

Olive oil recipes, pages 17–18

NOVEMBER 2019

from the editor

A season of thanks — and food Thanksgiving and food go hand in hand. I pull out all my necessary recipes weeks in advance and not only make a shopping list but check it twice. Thanksgiving Day is not the time to suddenly realize you forgot to get an important ingredient!

Good cooks may know how to improvise when necessary, but creative fixes rarely fly on a holiday so steeped in tradition. Taste buds are always attuned to favorite family dishes — even if they may only be served once a year. If the stuffing is missing the celery, the cook will hear about it!

Perennial Thanksgiving hosts know the turkey day drill, but if you’re a first-timer, here are five of my tips to make your day easier: 1. Plan your menu early, and make note of what ingredients you have and what you need to buy.

2. If you buy a frozen turkey, make sure you allow adequate time and refrigerator space to defrost it!

3. If your guests want to help cook, by all means take them up on the offer! If they have a well-loved signature dish, like pumpkin pie, their contribution will save you time and help ensure the meal is memorable for all.

4. Concentrate on the “star attractions.” If your guests just like turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, why stress over a myriad of other side dishes that will only clutter the table and will barely get touched? Make only what will get eaten.

5. If you and your family don’t like traditional fare, don’t feel as if you have to force down food that isn’t your thing. Have pizza if you’d rather! It’s all about spending time together and being thankful for our blessings anyway!

EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@indianaec.org

Giveaway: Enter to win one of five autographed copies of Outdoors

columnist Jack Spaulding’s new book. Also, enter to win one of two prize packs from Pokagon State Park. Visitindianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests. Entry deadline for giveaways: Nov. 30.

On the menu: February issue: Sweet and salty snacks, deadline Dec. 2. March

issue: Dips, deadline Dec. 2. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Three ways to contact us: To send us recipes, photos, event listings, letters

and entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website indianaconnection.org; email info@indianaconnection.org; or send to Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606.

VOLUME 69 • NUMBER 5 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by Indiana Electric Cooperatives Indiana Connection is for and about members of Indiana’s locally-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives. It helps consumers use electricity safely and efficiently; understand energy issues; connect with their co-op; and celebrate life in Indiana. Over 280,000 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: Gary Gerlach President Walter Hunter Vice President Randy Kleaving Secretary/Treasurer John Gasstrom CEO EDITORIAL STAFF: Emily Schilling Editor Richard George Biever Senior Editor Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist Ellie Schuler Senior Creative Services Specialist Taylor Maranion Creative Services Specialist Stacey Holton Creative Services Manager Mandy Barth Communication Manager 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.

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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.

NOVEMBER 2019

3

contents

NOVEMBER

10

17

energy

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

10 ENERGY Take a load off your energy bill.

12 I NSIGHTS 14 COUNTY OF THE MONTH Spotlighting Dubois County.

30

food

backyard

16 INDIANA EATS

28 OUTDOORS

Nick’s Kitchen: Go for the

Vulture not the kind of “turkey” to have for Thanksgiving.

tenderloin, stay for the pie.

17 FOOD EVOO-lution: Recipes featuring olive oil.

20 BROADBAND

29 SAFETY Power tool safety is in your hands.

SUCCESS STORIES How high-speed internet has helped you.

30 BACKYARD Fall leaves are treasure, not trash. (Not in all versions)

21 COVER STORY Winter fun at Pokagon State Park.

31 RECALLS

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Indiana Connection

33

travel

32 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS 33 TRAVEL Shipshewana: A Christmas trip back in time. (Not in all versions) 34 PROFILE Harold Stark helped build Apollo. (Not in all versions)

On the cover Tobogganers enjoy the rush of winter at Pokagon State Park. The refrigerated track, which opens for the season Nov. 29, allows tobogganers to reach speeds of up to 40 mph over the quarter mile drop, snow or not.

PHOTO BY JAIME WALKER

4

NOVEMBER 2019

co-op news

Distribution charge to increase Jan. 1, 2020 www.hcremc.com 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. 26.

Bills mailed Dec. 16 are due Jan. 5.

Bills mailed Dec. 30 are due Jan. 20.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

HCREMC employees and directors work hard to keep your local cooperative in sound condition.

Management and the REMC board consider the needs and expectations of the membership (reliable service at a reasonable price) while ensuring a skilled workforce is equipped with the necessary tools to perform the duties in a safe and efficient manner.

As part of our strategic plan, the HCREMC board of directors directed to the management staff to increase members’ distribution charges, effective Jan. 1, 2020.

Residential members will see a $2.50 increase to their monthly distribution charge. The distribution charge is a fixed monthly charge that collects the fixed costs of bringing the electricity to your meter. If we never sold a single kilowatt-hour of electricity, this is the amount of money we must collect from each member, each month, just to keep the cooperative operating.

The last distribution charge increase was in the spring of 2014. While

HCREMC is planning to change the district territories within our system for equitable representation. Watch your mailbox for a special notice regarding board district changes. any increase is considered carefully by your board and management, it was determined that this moderate increase is required. This will allow your cooperative to meet its financial responsibility and supply you with the power you depend on.

Additionally, all single phase accounts will be separated into residential, agriculture and general service rate classes. The non-residential accounts will be classified into appropriate rate classes based on size and type. Members with non-residential accounts will be mailed information specific to their account very soon.

For questions about your bill, feel free to contact an HCREMC representative at 800-248-8413.

SHANNON THOM CEO

OFFICE CLOSINGS FOR HOLIDAYS This month, as we celebrate Veterans Day and Thanksgiving, HCREMC’s office will be closed Nov. 11, 28 and 29. Our employees and directors wish you a happy Veterans Day and Thanksgiving!

NOVEMBER 2019

5

co-op news

Powering Up After an Outage Takes Time

P

ower outages — they’re no

business hours, you will be directed

determine the best way to get the

fun for our members who

to our 24-hour dispatch service.

most members back online. This

are suddenly left in the

Never report outages through email

can mean immediately beginning

or social media.

repair work. But depending on the

dark and for our crew members who respond at all hours of the day and night. But, with the intricate web of power lines crisscrossing neighborhoods and open country, they are a reality.

The more information callers can provide the better. Did you see a flash? Is your whole neighborhood out? Did you witness someone hit a utility pole? This type of

problem, it can also mean setting up an alternate feed to the area before making repairs or isolating the damaged line and getting a portion of members powered back up.

HCREMC maintains approximately

information makes it much easier

Additionally, underground outages

1,224 miles of power lines. Our lines,

for our linemen to pinpoint the

take much longer to repair,

both overhead and underground,

area affected and locate the actual

requiring locate services and

aren’t immune to all the events

problem.

digging just to access a damaged

that can trigger outages, be it weather, trees, animals or even the unavoidable failure of equipment.

Other times it’s not so easy. In these cases, our crews patrol the lines and equipment serving the area where

line. This is made even more difficult when the crews have to dig through snow and chip ice to access equipment.

When an outage occurs, there’s

the outage was reported. They look

a process all electric utilities go

for downed power lines, check

HCREMC also works hard behind

through on the road to restoration.

substations and test equipment.

the scenes to keep our members

The first step is actually something

It can be time consuming and

informed about power outages.

we need from you, and it is

frustrating for both us and our

Members can access outage

very important. We can’t stress

members.

information 24/7 by visiting our

enough the need for members to call in if they are experiencing a power outage. Don’t rely on your neighbors. Always report a power outage by calling our office at 800-248-8413. If it is after normal

Considering our service territory is 380 square miles, it can sometimes feel like we are searching for a needle in a haystack. Once the problem is identified, our linemen

UNPLA NNE D OU TA GE HOU R S BY C AU SE 44% trees 34% transmission outage 10% unknown 6% public 3% design/equipment failure 3% lightning and wind

6

NOVEMBER 2019

“Outage Center” at www.hcremc. com. For outages affecting 100 or more members, it’s important to stay up-to-date by following our Facebook or Twitter pages.

co-op news

CO-OP COMMUNITY DAY recap Although rain clouds moved in on Oct. 11, the sixth annual

HCREMC Co-op Community Day event was the biggest, most successful one yet!

The free family-fun charitable event was held to raise money for the Henry County Salvation Army. A blood drive was hosted, and businesses from all over the community and beyond had an opportunity to exhibit their products and services. In addition, attendees enjoyed the video gaming trailer, bucket truck rides, Saddle Club’s petting zoo and pony rides, Co-op Bingo and free lunch! The Health Department offered flu shots, and Henry Community Health conducted health screenings.

We would like to give an extra special thank you to our sponsors and other business participants, REMC staff and faculty, volunteers and, of course, our attendees during the event. Your contributions made this day very special and so beneficial to the needs in our community.

Key sponsors: • Boar’s Head • First Merchants Bank • Culligan • AMPP Construction • Jack’s Donuts • Meridian Health Services For a complete listing of sponsors, visit www.hcremc.com/content/2019-sponsorship-listing.

NOVEMBER 2019

7

co-op news

free 2020

&

ALMANAC CALENDARS student art calendars now available at the HCREMC office

Appliance rebates Upgrading your home’s efficiency doesn't have to be hard on the wallet.

HCREMC helps with upgrades by offering substantial financial incentives.

We offer rebates on new purchases of: • Heat Pump Water Heaters • Heat Pumps • Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps • Geothermal Heat Pumps Visit www.hcremc.com/content/residential for details or to download an application. Application deadline for the 2019 rebate program is Dec. 15.

Now accepting American Express We’ve recently added American Express to our existing credit card options. If you’re currently paying online by MasterCard or Visa and would prefer to pay by American Express, you can use the “add new card” feature in SmartHub found under your profile information.

8

NOVEMBER 2019

energy

Take a load off your energy bill Smart home technology

since 1992. Today,

a heat pump system.

panel to determine when

provides the ability to

devices with the Energy

Compared to electric-

and how energy is used.

monitor and control the

Star label are certified to

resistance water heaters,

The information gathered

devices in our homes in

deliver energy savings.

heat pump water heaters

is viewable on your

fun and engaging ways.

For example, Energy

are often two to three

phone or tablet. To learn

Being able to automate

Star certified washing

times more efficient.

more about these devices,

when the lights turn on

machines use 25 percent

They use electricity to

search online for “home

or when the temperature

less energy and 33

transfer the heat from

energy monitoring

changes can save time.

percent less water than

the surrounding air to

systems.�

But what about reducing

standard models. For

the water rather than

energy use? Here are

clothes dryers, certified

generating heat directly.

some simple ways you

models use 20 percent

can use technology to do

less energy. With the

just that.

average family washing about 300 loads of

Energy Star-certified appliances

laundry each year, device

professional installation

Contact your co-op for

as working on or near

heat pump water heater

your circuit panel is

rebate information.

extremely dangerous.

Energy use awareness

240-volt connections

Heat water efficiently

Did you know there are

are a great place to begin

Water heating is another

today that show you what

area that benefits

is using energy in your

from energy efficient

home? Energy usage

equipment. If you need

data is provided in real-

to replace your electric

time too. These devices

water heater, consider

connect to your circuit

looking for efficiency gains in your home.

Energy Star has been providing energy efficiency information

10

NOVEMBER 2019

device like this, consider

Your co-op can help.

efficiency is important.

The appliances that use

If you are interested in a

devices on the market

by

Lara Sullivan

Manager of Marketing and Member Services Henry County REMC

United States Postal Service Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation 1. Publication Title: Indiana Connection. 2. Publication Number: 0745-4651. 3. Filing Date 9/24/19. 4. Issue Frequency: Monthly. 5.

Number of Issues Published Annually: 12. 6. Annual Subscription Price: $3.26. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: Indiana Electric Cooperatives, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, Marion County, IN 46240-4606. Contact Person: Emily Schilling. Telephone: 317-487-2220. 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: Indiana Electric Cooperatives, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, Marion County, IN 46240-4606. 9.

Full Names and Complete Mailing Address of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor: Publisher: Indiana Electric Cooperatives, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, Marion County, IN 46240-4606. Editor: Emily Schilling, Indiana Electric Cooperatives, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, Marion County, IN 46240-4606. Managing Editor: None. 10. Owner: Indiana Electric Cooperatives, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None. 12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates). The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes has not changed during preceding 12 months. 13. Publication Title: Indiana Connection. 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: Oct. 2019. 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Electric cooperative members in Indiana. a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 283,466. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 283,093. b. Paid Circulation (By Mail and Outside the Mail). (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies and exchange copies): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 282,235. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 281,932. (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies and exchange copies): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 0. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 0. (3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mails including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 0. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 0. (4) Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 0. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 0. c. Total Paid Distribution ((Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4)): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 282,235. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 281,932. d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail). (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies included on PS Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 225. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 225. (2) Free or Nominal Rate Copies In-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 0. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 0. (3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 0. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 0. (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 0.

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 0. e.

Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3) and (4): Average No. Copies of Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 225. No. Copies of Single issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 225. f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 282,460. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 282,157. g. Copies not Distributed (See Instructions to Publishers #4 (page #3): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 1,006. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 936. h. Total (Sum of 15f and g): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 283,466. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 283,093. i. Percent Paid (15c divided by 15f times 100): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 99.6. No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 99.9. Publication of Statement of Ownership. If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed in the November 2019 issue of this publication. 17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager or Owner (Signed): Emily Schilling, Editor. Date: 9/24/19 I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

12

NOVEMBER 2019

A year’s worth of student art The 2020 Cooperative Calendar of Student Art is available at participating electric co-op offices across the state.

• Bartholomew County REMC • Boone REMC • Carroll White REMC • Clark County REMC • Decatur County REMC • Dubois REC • Fulton County REMC • Harrison REMC • Henry County REMC • Heartland REMC • Hendricks Power Cooperative • Jasper County REMC • Jay County REMC • Johnson County REMC • Kankakee Valley REMC • Kosciusko REMC • LaGrange County REMC • Marshall County REMC

• Newton County REMC • Noble REMC • Northeastern REMC • Orange County REMC • RushShelby Energy • South Central Indiana REMC • Southeastern Indiana REMC • Tipmont REMC • UDWI REMC • Whitewater Valley REMC • WIN Energy REMC Copies are also available through the mail from Indiana Connection.

• Miami-Cass REMC

ORDER YOUR 2020 CALENDAR TODAY! Please send ______ copy (copies) of the Cooperative Calendar of Student Art 2019 at $6 each to: Name: Address: City, State and ZIP: Price includes shipping and Indiana sales tax. Make check payable to “Indiana Electric Cooperatives.” Send this completed form and a check to Indiana Connection Calendar; 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600; Indianapolis, IN 46240.

county feature

Dubois County

BY RICHARD G. BIEVER

Countycts Fa FOUNDED: 1818

NAMED FOR: Toussaint DuBois, a Montreal-born Frenchman who joined the fight for American independence in the Revolutionary War and was later an influential fur trader and businessman in southwestern Indiana.

POPULATION: 41,889 (2010) COUNTY SEAT: Jasper

Enter Dubois County through its southeasternmost doorway, and you’ll think you’ve somehow crossed into rolling European countryside. Gently sloping fields flow around a hillside where ascends … a castle. The Monastery of the Immaculate Conception, a magnificent red brick Romanesque structure with its dome and corner turrets, majestically looks over the fields and town of Ferdinand.

Welcome to the German Catholic Hoosier heartland.

German-speaking immigrants were a minority in the area until Benedictine priest Father Joseph Kundek arrived as pastor of St. Joseph’s Parish in Jasper in 1838. Kundek heavily promoted German immigration to the area. And immigrants came — proudly keeping their native language, religion, and traditions.

Ferdinand, named after the Austrian emperor, was founded in 1840 by Kundek. The monastery was constructed in the 1880s with later expansions. Listed on the National Register of

event

Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt

Nov. 15-17 | Admission: Free 765-569-5226 http://www.ferdinandchristkindlmarkt.com

Details on opening ceremony found on event website.

14

NOVEMBER 2019

PHO TO CO URTE S Y O F DUBO I S CO UN TY V I S I TO RS CE NTE R

The Monastery of the Immaculate Conception Historic Places, it is still home to one of the nation’s largest communities of Benedictine women.

At Kundek’s home parish in Jasper, the massive St. Joseph’s Church was built from 1867-1880 with native sandstone. The dominating structure in the heart of town represents the historic immigration and is another significant architectural achievement in the county.

Ironically, Dubois County, created in 1818, was named after a Montreal-born Frenchman, Toussaint DuBois, who fought alongside Americans during the Revolutionary War. But American and German tongues changed his French pronunciation of “doo-bwa” to “doo-BOYZ.” The county still celebrates its German heritage: most notably with Jasper’s “Strassenfest” each summer; and Ferdinand’s artisanbased “Christkindlmarkt” each November (please see sidebar below.)

The European artisans who came to Dubois County put

its resources to full use. Jasper became known as the “Wood Capital of the World,” boasting a large number of furniture companies.

The county’s natural resources also provide tourism. On the southside of Jasper’s downtown, “Riverwalk” offers a walking path, a gazebo and shelter houses, a playground and other amenities popular for events and concerts along the Patoka River. Riverwalk is part of a community redevelopment that also includes reconstruction of the Jasper railroad depot and beautifully-restored “Spirit of Jasper” passenger train which offers scenic excursions.

Upriver, where the Patoka enters the eastern edge of Dubois County, is Indiana’s second largest body of water.

Straddling Dubois, Crawford and Orange counties, Patoka Lake was created in the 1970s primarily for flood control and water supply. But the lake provides abundant recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat.

Richard G. Biever is senior editor of Indiana Connection.

The German tradition of “Christkindlmarkt” — during which artisans would sell their wares and gifts in a festival-style setting in the weeks leading up to Christmas — returns to the “Bavarian” village of Ferdinand.

Along with all kinds of crafts and goods for sale, various kinds of music, children’s crafts, monastery tours, and other entertainment will be provided throughout the two-day festival. The Melchior Marionettes will also perform each day at Forest Park High School.

NOVEMBER 2019

15

Indiana eats

Go for the tenderloin, stay for the pie No political campaign was ever won on an empty stomach. Between photo ops of chowing down with the voting public to simply needing the energy to sustain a long campaign, folks running for office just naturally gravitate to down-home restaurants serving up stick-to-your ribs kind of meals. In Huntington, such a place is Nick’s Kitchen, the birthplace of the breaded pork tenderloin.

The story goes that Huntington native U.S. Sen. Dan Quayle kicked off his successful campaign as George H.W. Bush’s vice-presidential running mate in 1988 after a breakfast stop at the venerable downtown eatery. And — all party affiliations aside — its friendly service makes everyone feel right at home. “You’re always amongst friends at Nick’s,” says State Sen. Andy Zay. Huntington native Nick Freienstein opened the restaurant in 1908 after the hamburgers he sold from a push cart at night with a dim lantern on the courthouse square began selling like hot cakes. While he sold his interest in Nick’s Kitchen in 1929, the Kitchen has always retained his name, the same location and his original recipe for its pork tenderloin sandwich.

menu items you’d expect from a locallyowned, long-standing establishment: pulled pork, prime rib, breaded chicken, turkey club, hamburgers, salads, fries, cole slaw, macaroni salad, soups, and more.

The Original Breaded Pork Tenderloin with Homemade Onion Rings

Nick’s is also open for breakfast with a complete menu of omelets, waffles, hot cakes, eggs, bacon, oatmeal and more.

Then, there’s Nick’s famous homemade pies, like black raspberry or the Hoosier classic sugar cream; hand-dipped shakes and more. Have a favorite pie you’re hankering for? Nick’s Kitchen will bake up specially ordered pies if you give them a day in advance.

Even if you’re a politician running in a heated race or an average citizen rushing at life’s busy pace, Zay recommends slowing it down at Nick’s — at least long enough for dessert! “Go for the tenderloin,” he says. “Stay for the pie.”

Sugar Cream Pie

ABOUT STATE SEN. ANDY ZAY:

Sen. Andy Zay (R) represents District 17 which includes WaAlong with the tenderloin, Nick’s includes bash County and portions of Grant, Huntinga wide variety of sandwiches and other ton and Whitley counties.

Elected in 2016, Zay is the ranking member of the Insurance & Financial Institutions committee, and serves on the Com506 N. Jefferson St., HOURS: merce and Technology, Huntington, IN 46750 Mon-Tues: 6 a.m.-2 p.m.

Environmental Affairs, Wed-Sat: 6 a.m.-8 p.m. nickskitchen.net and Utilities committees.

NICK’S KITCHEN 260-356-6618

Closed Sundays

Tenderloin Biscuit with Potato Tots

16

NOVEMBER 2019

food

EVOO -lution Recipes spotlight olive oil as a key ingredient.

Pumpkin Bran Muffins Jan Hackman Columbus, Indiana 1 cup bran flakes cereal

1 t. nutmeg

1 cup Fiber One cereal

2 eggs

1 ¼ cups fat free milk

1 cup canned pumpkin

1 ¼ cups flour

⅓ cup brown sugar

1 T. baking powder

2 T. olive oil

1 t. cinnamon

½ cup raisins

Preheat oven to 400 F. Mix cereals together in a medium bowl and pour milk over them to soak. Mix flour, baking powder, cinnamon and nutmeg in a large bowl. Add eggs, pumpkin, brown sugar, olive oil and raisins to the bowl containing cereals and milk. Mix well. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until evenly moist. Spoon the batter into a muffin cups that have been lined, filling each cup nearly full. Bake 20 minutes or until brown. *For those unfamiliar with EVOO, it’s an abbreviation for extra virgin olive oil.

food

FO O D PREPARED BY I NDI ANA CO NNECT I O N S TA FF PHO TO S BY TAYLOR DAWS O N

Marinated Mozzarella

Chocolate Olive Oil Cake Heidi Stamets, Monroeville, Indiana 1½ cups all-purpose flour ¾ cup plus 2 T. unsweetened cocoa powder, divided 1½ cups plus 2 T. sugar, divided 1½ t. baking soda 1 t. salt

Marinated Mozzarella Charlotte Rymph, Monterey, Indiana

½ cup olive oil, divided, plus ¼ more for greasing 1½ cups water 1 T. apple cider vinegar

⅓ cup olive oil

1 cup dark chocolate chips

1 T. chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes

Fresh berries for serving

1 T. minced fresh parsley 1 t. crushed red pepper flakes

Preheat oven to 350 F. Whisk flour, ¾ cup cocoa powder, 1½ cups sugar, baking soda, and salt until full incorporated. Mix in ½ cup oil,

1 t. dried basil

water, and vinegar until batter just forms but no lumps remain. Pour

1 t. minced chives

batter into greased 9x9 inch cake pan; bake 20-24 minutes or until

¼ t. garlic powder

toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean.

1 lb. cubed mozzarella cheese In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the first seven ingredients; add cheese cubes.

Seal and turn bag to coat.

While the cake bakes, make the chocolate glaze: In a double boiler, melt dark chocolate chips, 2 T. cocoa powder, 2 T. sugar, and the remaining ¼ cup oil. Mix until smooth and keep warm until serving.

Gently flip the pan to remove cake and let cool slightly on a wire rack. Cover the cake with chocolate glaze on the rack — or tableside when serving. Serve cake with fresh berries.

Refrigerate at least 30 minutes.

(Overnight is even better!)

Transfer to a serving dish. Serve with toothpicks. Serves 8-10.

Sweet Soy Dressing Patricia Piekarski, Harvey, Illinois ¼ cup white wine vinegar 3 T. sugar 2 T. olive oil 2 T. toasted sesame seeds 1 T. soy sauce 1 garlic clove, pressed Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk to blend.

18

NOVEMBER 2019

Chocolate Olive Oil Cake

broadband

What’ s Your broadband story?

Tell us why expanding high-speed internet to all of Indiana is important.

Electric cooperatives are finding ways to help close the rural digital divide, providing all Hoosiers the same opportunities.

INCREASED speeds, INCREASED market

Affordable and reliable quality internet means life-altering improvements for rural Hoosiers in:

MODERN HEALTH CARE, including prompt access to specialists, and expanded monitoring and treatment options.

Tony Nehrt

Tucked in the rural Indiana community of Brownstown is a small business named Nehrwess. Tony Nehrt started the company after he sold Brownstown Quality Tool and Design, a business his father founded more than four decades earlier, to two longtime employees in 2015.

Nehrwess designs and manufactures small straps, hangers and clamps that mount underground utility distribution lines to poles. The company, with three full-time and three-part-time employees, sells its products throughout the U.S. “It’s important for us to keep the images and data on our website up to date. It wasn’t uncommon for us to spend 15 minutes uploading a single image to the site,” Nehrt said.

“We were always able to get the job done before, but it was much more frustrating.”

When Jackson County REMC introduced fiber internet service to its service area through Jackson Connect, Nehrwess was one of the company’s first internet customers.

20

NOVEMBER 2019

“The fiber service from Jackson Connect now frees up our time to do other things. It’s important our small staff is efficient and now we have more productive hours,” Nehrt said.

Nehrt said he remembers when Brownstown Quality Tool couldn’t finish projects because it was impossible to transfer the large design files among vendors.

“It’s almost instantaneous now,” said Nehrt. “It has definitely had a positive effect on our company.”

Nehrwess has seen an uptick in sales through its website because the company can produce new products in a timely manner. The company has also now entered a global market with increased internet speeds available through Jackson Connect.

MODERN EDUCATION options so rural students can use technology previously available only to their urban peers. Adult learners will have access to distance education options.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT opportunities mean small businesses in rural areas can enter the global marketplace. And, young families seeking a rural lifestyle can enjoy that small town sense of community with the modern conveniences of an urban area.

Tell us how having access to affordable and reliable high-speed internet could improve your family’s quality of life, or how new service options have changed the way you live. Your stories will continue to inspire our state’s leaders to do all they can to bring broadband to all of Indiana.

Visit IndianaEC.org/ YourBroadbandStory to share your broadband story!

The toboggan run at Pokagon State Park in Steuben County begins its 81st season of chills and thrills Nov. 29.

Pokagon, Indiana’s “Up North” state park, gets more snow than most of Indiana, but it’s not necessary for the toboggan track. It’s refrigerated.

While the track has certainly changed a lot since the first rudimentary one was built in 1934, one thing for most tobogganers has not: “You have to walk back up the hill,” says Nicky Ball, interpretive naturalist at Pokagon.

P H OTOS B Y JA IME WALKER

Indiana’s

‘Up North’

For Eddie Wise Jr., tobogganing at Pokagon State Park each winter is a family tradition with roots frozen in time.

The park’s famed icy toboggan run where he brings his kids, just as his parents brought him and his sisters when he was little, starts atop a steep-crested hill above the park’s Potawatomi Inn. From an additional 30-foot tower, the dual refrigerated runs drop, rise and drop again for a total fall of 90 vertical feet over

Toboggan Pokagon for a glacial rush

By Richard G. Biever

a quarter mile. The 20-30 second thrill rides reach speeds of 30-40 mph.

“It’s a rush,” said Wise. “You don’t really get that big of hills around here with that long of a straightaway and up and down. It’s the better part of sledding.”

Wise should know. He grew up near the Steuben County state park where he’s been tobogganing ever since he can remember. The 33-year-old Wise and his wife, Brandi, both outdoor enthusiasts, take their children — Harlee, age 11, and

continued on page 22 NOVEMBER 2019

21

continued from page 21

Conservation Corps. But that “rush”

county in the state. The state park is

of speed and adrenaline Wise noted

surrounded by two kettle lakes, Lake

Hawkin, 8 — tobogganing at Pokagon

is stirred from the steep hill that

James and Snow Lake. The toboggan

several times a season.

originated a little further back in time

hill at Pokagon is a “kame” — a pile

“It gets them into the outdoors and

— about 10,000 years back — to

of rock and debris deposited by the

when the last glacier stagnated and

melting glacier.

away from everything else,” Wise said.

“Not a lot of kids do that anymore.”

melted over Northeastern Indiana.

Along with being outdoors and

During the last Ice Age, unimaginably

of a glacier, it would gather debris

massive glaciers up to a mile high

imbedded in the ice. Through large

slowly flowed out of northern Canada

cracks, the runoff would cascade like

and covered the northern two-thirds

a waterfall leaving the debris at the

of Indiana. When they melted, they

bottom after the glacier melted away.

own unique throwback style.”

left their marks: most notably the

The largest kame, and the highest

Great Lakes. But they also left smaller

point at Pokagon, is known as “Hell’s

A glacial rush

landscape features, especially all

Point,” the pinnacle of a challenging

across Northeastern Indiana.

hike at the park. Chain O’Lakes

enjoying the thrill of the ride, Wise said he likes the memories tobogganing conjures and the nostalgic feel of the J-shaped wooden sleds. “It’s got its

“Throwback” is the key word for tobogganing at Pokagon. Beginning its 81st season, the state park’s toboggan run itself dates back to the Great Depression and the Civilian

The earth-moving and gouging glaciers gave Steuben County, for

As meltwater flowed across the top

State Park in Noble County was also shaped by Ice Age formations.

instance, more natural lakes — called

The many lakes in the northeast

“kettle lakes” — than any other

corner of the state make the area unique. They harbor wildlife and provide recreational opportunities.

It’s a perfect place for a state park.

Named for Leopold and Simon Pokagon, father and son leaders of the Potawatomi tribe of Native Americans who lived in the area in the 1800s, Pokagon State Park was one of the state’s earlier parks, dedicated in 1925.

The park and the Potawatomi Inn (built in 1927) provided a northern lake experience. “The state wanted us to be a year-round destination and thought people wouldn’t want to come here in the winter unless there was a warm place to stay,” said Nicky Ball, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources interpretive naturalist at Pokagon and the nearby Trine State Recreation Area.

It’s thumbs up at Pokagon State Park’s toboggan.

PHO TO BY JAI M E WALKER

22

NOVEMBER 2019

Something fun to do in a Great Depression

P H OTO P R OV ID E D B Y PO KAG O N STATE PARK

While natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor activities abound, it’s the manmade toboggan track that garners the most attention around Pokagon in winter. The run attracts some 90,000 visitors through the three-month season. Fortuitously, the attraction that iced the park’s reputation as a winter destination began simply as an amusement for the young men who built many of the park’s other lasting shelters and features.

In October 1929, four years after Pokagon’s creation, the Great Depression began. One out of four Americans was unemployed.

President Franklin Roosevelt came into office promising a “New Deal” for the American people. Five days after taking office in March 1933, FDR created the Civilian Conservation Corps to put unemployed, single young men to work. CCC projects focused on reclaiming land, enhancing natural areas, and building structures and infrastructure at national and state parks and other public places.

Company 556 of the CCC, which consisted of about 180 men, arrived at Pokagon in 1934. They first built

Young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps stand beside an early version of Pokagon State Park’s toboggan track, circa late 1930s-early 1940s.

their barracks, and then they began

the steep hill, the kame, and built a

planting trees across the park’s mostly

toboggan run. “It was their first winter

open terrain that had been farmland.

here,” said Ball, “and the boys were

In addition to many infrastructure and

just looking for something fun to do.”

erosion control projects, the CCC built the classic structures found throughout the park. Works included the beaches, gatehouse, shelter houses, the original County Road Bridge, camping grounds, trails, the service building, the saddle barn, and more. The CCC’s structures and its beautiful masonry work on walls and large hearths, using timbers and glacial stones — all cut and laid by hand — are on the National Register of Historic Areas.

The first wooden track they built, which would be enhanced with ice cut and hauled up from nearby Lake James, had a huge right-hand curve halfway down and would shoot the tobogganers out onto the frozen lake.

The following year, the track was straightened to increase speed. In 1938, the park commercialized the operation. Company 556 erected a taller tower of about 20 feet, and the track opened to the public. A winter tradition at Pokagon was born.

Behind their barracks, they saw

continued on page 24

Eddie Wise Jr. has

Dress in layers.

been tobogganing

Tobogganers carrying the

Have a ‘designated driver’ for a bigger tobogganing bargain.

sled back up the hill can

Visitors rent the toboggan by the hour, so

start working up a sweat

the more trips down the run the bigger the

even in cold weather.

value. To save time walking the toboggan

Layers will allow you

back up the hill, have an extra buddy in

to shed clothing when

a pickup truck waiting for your group at

walking or add more while

the bottom. When your group reaches the

waiting your turn in line.

bottom, toss the toboggan in the back of

Pokagon since he was a tot.

The 33-yearold outdoorsman offers tips for rookies:

the truck and drive back up to the top.

NOVEMBER 2019

23

continued from page 23 The CCC added a second track in 1940. With the U.S. entry into World War II, the CCC disbanded soon after in 1942.

In 1971, Pokagon made the slide refrigerated which made it less dependent on freezing weather. In 1974, the current 30foot tower replaced the aging CCC tower. Ten years later, the two tracks were renovated and a track-side warming center was built where tobogganers could buy snacks and hot

if you go...

Pokagon State Park’s refrigerated toboggan opens for the season, with or without snow, at 10:30 a.m., Nov. 29. It operates through March 1, 2020.

chocolate, and sit before a fireplace and observation window.

Though it began out of happenstance, Pokagon’s toboggan run is something frequent glacial glider Wise said he thinks every Hoosier should experience. And it is one of only two such refrigerated facilities in the Midwest.

“It’s not a common thing, especially for people in Southern Indiana,” said Ball, talking about the lure of the wintry roller coaster. “We are ‘Up North’ to them, so the whole park has this Up North feel to it with the inn and the cabins and the lake. It feels like an old-fashioned kind of winter.”

Richard G. Biever is senior editor of Indiana Connection.

Giveaway!

Visit www.indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/ contests to enter to win one of two Pokagon State Park prizes. Entry deadline: Nov. 30.

SUMMER PACKAGE: • 2020 annual pass • $50 camping gift card • $25 Inn gift card (can be used for meals at the inn or gift shop or boat rental through the inn)

WINTER PACKAGE: • 2020 annual pass • $50 Inn gift card • 2 hours of toboggan time (can be used through Feb. 29, 2020)

24

NOVEMBER 2019

hours: Friday: 5:30-9 p.m.

Saturday: 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Hours are extended during school winter break. Pokagon is open on New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Presidents’ Day.

fees and Info: Toboggan sled rental per hour: $13.

Toboggan renters are guaranteed one ride per hour during peak times.

Park entrance fees: $7 in-state vehicles, $9 out-of-state vehicles, $2 a person on a bus.

(Park hours: 7 a.m.-11 p.m.)

• Driver’s license is required as deposit, rents up to four toboggans.

• Must use park’s sleds. Rented on firstcome, first-served basis.

• Maximum of four people per toboggan (no exceptions).

• Cash, check and Visa/MasterCard accepted.

• No all-day rentals.

• No group reservations or group rates.

• There are no specific age or height restrictions, but children must be able to understand and abide by rules.

• No cameras or video equipment are allowed on the ride.

• Toboggan will close if temperature drops to 0 degrees F or below.

• Warming Center concessions available (carry-in food prohibited).

NOVEMBER 2019

25

calendar NORTHWEST

29Dec.

14

Dec.

7

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK, Logansport (Cass), Spencer Park. Drive through this lighted holiday display. Admission charge. 574-753-6969. visitcasscounty.com/event/Christmas-in-the-park/

OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS AT THE CANAL, Delphi (Carroll), Wabash and Erie Canal Park. Crafters, artisans, demonstrations, unique gifts, and food. Tour the Pioneer Village. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 765-5642870. wabashanderiecanal.org

Dec.

14

CHRISTMAS IN MONON, Monon (White), downtown. Bazaar and bake sale at Monon Civic Center, 2-6 p.m.

Santa at Civic Center, 3-5 p.m. Soup Supper at Monon Fire Department, 3-6 p.m. Lighted Christmas Parade, 6 p.m. Tour of Homes, 7-9 p.m. Soup Supper and Tour of Homes will accept free will donations. 219-8634967. coachJimdavis@hotmail. com. https://www.facebook.com/ groups/663504437485066/

CENTRAL

2223

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE, West Lafayette (Tippecanoe), West Lafayette Golf and Country Club. Holiday crafts, gifts, and baked goods. Hours: Friday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 765-427-5733. clbschmidt@yahoo.com

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS, 29- AUnion City (Randolph), Harter Park.

Dec.

1

Drive through a 68-acre light display to music and laser light show. Visit Santa in the gift shop.

Find us on Facebook for dates and times. Free, but donations welcome. 765-964-6302. Other event dates are: Dec. 5-8, 12-15, 19-31.

Dec.

4

VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS, Greenfield (Hancock), downtown. Classic holiday films at 3 and 7 p.m. on Dec. 4, 11 and 18. Horse-drawn carriage rides from 5-9 p.m. Free. 317-6490890. greenfieldmainstreet. org. Other dates for the event are Dec. 7, 11, 14, and 18.

SOUTHWEST

29

CANNELTON CHRISTMAS PARADE, Cannelton (Perry), Cannelton Main Street. Holiday floats parade through downtown. Free. 5:30-7 p.m. 812-5477933. perrycountycvb@psci.net

Dec.

TELL CITY CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK AND CHRISTMAS PARADE, Tell City (Perry), City Hall Park. Hot chocolate, cookies, Christmas caroling, coloring Christmas ornaments, petting zoo, and miniature buggy rides. Santa Claus will be in park from 2-4 p.m. Event is from 2-6 p.m. with parade following. Free. 812-547-7933. perrycountycvb@psci.net

7

26

NOVEMBER 2019

NOV.

DEC.

To ensure our readers have sufficient time to plan ahead to attend these events, we have revamped the timeline of our calendar. Our events listing runs from the 15th of the current month to the 15th of the next month. We hope you find this revised schedule helpful.

NORTHEAST

21Dec.

29

SHIPSHEWANA’S LIGHTS OF JOY, Shipshewana (LaGrange) 345 S Van Buren St., Drive-through light experience featuring more than two million LED lights displayed in a mile-long symphony of various light scenes. Thursdays and Sundays, 6-9 p.m., $15/car. Fridays and Saturdays, 6-10 p.m., $20/ car. Closed Thanksgiving. Also open Nov. 8-9, 6-10 p.m. 260-768-4129. shipshewanaslightsofjoy.com

Dec.

WINDMILL WINTER WONDERLAND, Kendallville (Noble), Mid-America Windmill Museum. Enjoy the magic and sounds of the season while walking the pathways on the museum grounds. Hours, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Admission: children 12 and under, free; $4 for adults and children age 13 and up.

260-318-0642. Midamericawindmillmuseum.org/winterwonderland_ midamericawindmill.html

Dec.

annually. Admission charge. 260-426-2882. fwhistorycenter.com

6-8 1315 OF GINGERBREAD, Fort Wayne (Allen), The History Center. Over 29- FESTIVAL 100 handmade gingerbread houses and designs made by artists of all ages 15

SOUTHEAST

29Dec.

30

Dec.

6-7

SEVENTH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS MODEL TRAIN SHOW, Rising Sun (Ohio), Heritage Hall. Sponsored by the Conductors of Southeastern Indiana. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Donation requested. 513-709-8256. readingestep@gmail.com. https://www.facebook.com/risingsuntrains/ ANNUAL SUMC COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS BAZAAR, Scottsburg (Scott), Scottsburg United Methodist Church. Homemade crafts, basket auction, small business vendors, homebaked goods and country store items. Hours: Friday, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Free.

812-752-3545. dtspringstun@ gmail.com. www.SUMC.live/

Dec.

6-7

MARY ANDERSON CENTER FOR THE ARTS CHRISTMAS SALE, Mount Saint Francis (Floyd), Mary Anderson Center for the Arts, Featuring the artists working at the center and a selection of locally invited artists. Reception with refreshments on Friday, 6-8 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 812-923-8817. info@ maryandersoncenter.com. www. maryandersoncenter.com

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

Indiana Connection 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 Indiana Connection strives for accuracy, please note that events, dates and time may change without notice. Indiana Connection 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 indianaconnection.org; or mail your info to: Calendar, Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240. Please submit info two months before the date of the event.

NOVEMBER 2019

27

Unusual

‘Roosters’

P HO TO BY RI CHARD G . BI E V E R

outdoors

Vulture not the kind of ‘turkey’ to have over for Thanksgiving

B Y J ACK SPAULDI NG My good friend Tom Stiers phoned the other day seeking my advice.

Growing up together in the small town of Moscow, we have shared many an outdoor adventure over the years. So, I was amused but not surprised by his latest close encounter.

Tom started out, “It seems I have an unusual critter hanging around the house. I’ve never seen anything like it hanging around before. It’s a buzzard.”

Also known as a turkey vulture or turkey buzzard, the aerial roadkill custodian had been gracing Tom and his wife, Barbara, with its company for a few days.

“It doesn’t seem to want to fly … it just walks around,” he said.

I asked how close he was able to approach the bird. He said he had ventured as close as 20 feet but was reluctant to go any closer.

I don’t blame him. Buzzards have a really nasty means of self-protection:

projectile vomiting at anything they consider threatening. I encountered this myself once with young buzzards in a barn loft outside of Batesville, Indiana. Fortunately, like Tom, I was wary and didn’t get within range.

Tom asked if the bird should be reported. I told him if it didn’t leave of its own accord in a day or so, he could contact the sheriff’s department who in turn would contact the local conservation officer. The officer would survey the situation and determine the best course of action. Buzzards are a state and federally protected species.

But I can just imagine the reaction of a poor wildlife rehabilitator … given such a handsome devil with such refined social graces to nurse back to health! ‘til next time,

Jack

A collection of Jack Spaulding’s syndicated columns has been gathered in a full-length book.

Culled from his over 30 years as an outdoor journalist, the book showcases his best, funniest and most heartwarming stories.

Follow Jack into the field and experience firsthand his trials and tribulations as he hunts and fishes while sharing tips and tried-and-true recipes. Jack wraps the book up with a series

28

NOVEMBER 2019

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 Indiana Connection or email jackspaulding@hughes.net.

For more information about turkey vultures, their habits, how to discourage their roosting near you, and what to do if you encounter an orphaned or injured bird, visit the Turkey Vulture Society website at https://turkeyvulturesociety. wordpress.com.

of fictional accounts of his childhood growing up on the banks of the Flatrock River in southeastern Indiana.

A great Christmas stocking stuffer for those who enjoy reading Jack’s column in Indiana Connection or for any Indiana outdoors enthusiast, the paperback is available on Amazon for $14.95 and as an e-book.

Giveaway!

Jack Spaulding has given Indiana Connection five autographed copies of his book to give away.

We’ll randomly select the names of five readers who sign up on our website by Nov. 30.

Go to IndianaConnection.org, and click on “Enter a Contest” under the “Talk to Us” tab.

safety

Power Tool safety

is in your hands!

What may seem like a small project could turn into big danger if you use electric power tools carelessly.

wear, if needed. When you’re finished

Tools aren’t just powered by electricity;

Electrical shocks, which can lead

they run on compressed air, hydrau-

to injuries such as heart failure and

lics, belts or chain drives, too. Knowing

burns, are among the major hazards

the dangers these tools are capable

associated with electric-powered tools.

of is the first step in keeping you and

Under certain conditions, even a small

those around you safe.

amount of electric current can result in

“Power tools possess a tremendous amount of energy and, if you use them, you must control that power,” said John Gasstrom, CEO of Indiana

using it, carefully disconnect the tool, never yanking by the cord, and store it in a dry place.

atrial fibrillation (AFib) and death. An electric shock also can cause people to fall off ladders or other elevated work surfaces and be injured due to the fall.

Electric Cooperatives. “Hazards from

Do not use electric tools in damp or

power tools affect not only the person

wet locations unless they are approved

using them, but also to those working

for that purpose. To protect users from

close by.”

shock and burns, electric tools must

There are some general practices that should be followed when using electric tools. It’s important to operate these tools within their design limitations.

have a three-wire cord with a ground plugged into a grounded receptacle, be double insulated, or be powered by a low-voltage isolation transformer.

Always read and follow the instruction

Your safety is important to us, but the

manual to ensure you are using them

power is in your hands to practice

correctly. Before using any tool, put on

electrical safety when using equip-

gloves, appropriate footwear and eye-

ment that can put you in harm’s way!

7

EASY STEPS TO STAYING SAFE WHILE USING ELECTRIC POWER TOOLS

Here are some safety steps to take when using electric power tools: • Keep floors dry and clean to avoid slipping while working with or around dangerous power tools.

• Ensure cords aren’t a tripping hazard.

• Examine tools and cords for damage before use.

• Use tools that are double-insulated or have a three-pronged cord and are plugged into a grounded receptacle.

• Do not use electric tools in wet conditions unless they are approved for that use.

• Do not exceed the design limitation of the tool.

• Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or an assured grounding program.

NOVEMBER 2019

29

backyard

Fall Leaves Are Treasure, Not Trash

BY B. ROSIE LERNER The hot dry weather experienced throughout much of Indiana in late summer brought an early leaf drop to many landscape plants. But the eventual leaf drop comes no matter the weather. For some Hoosiers, this marvel is overshadowed by the chores of raking and disposing of leaves.

What’s needed here is an attitude adjustment! Autumn leaves don’t have to become trash. On the contrary, they easily can be turned into valuable soil-enhancing organic matter. There are several ways to manage tree leaves at home.

Green-thumbed gardeners long have known the value of recycling plant material. Dry leaves can be plowed or tilled under in the vegetable or annual flower bed in fall to provide a source of organic matter. Shredding the leaves first will speed the breakdown so that the leaves will not be visible by spring. Be sure to mix the leaves into the soil, rather than leaving them on top through the winter, to avoid keeping the soil too cold and wet to work in the spring.

30

NOVEMBER 2019

Tree leaves can be recycled directly on the lawn. Use your power mower or shredder/vacuum to break dry leaves into smaller pieces. A mulching blade on the mower will speed this process, but even a standard blade will do an adequate job. For large leaves, such as maple and sycamore, it may take several passes to get a finely shredded product. Once the leaves are pulverized, they will break down quickly. A fall application of nitrogen fertilizer (about 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet) will help speed decomposition of the leaves and also will benefit the grass plants.

Fall leaves also make great composting ingredients, especially when mixed with green trimmings and grass clippings. Again, the smaller the pieces, the faster they’ll break down, so shred or chop dry leaves before adding them to the compost pile.

Last, but not least, shredded leaves can be used as a winter mulch to protect tender perennials through the coming harsh weather.

Shredding the leaves will help prevent them from packing down

as they get wet and smothering the plants that they are supposed to protect. To provide winter protection, apply a 3-to 6-inch layer of shredded leaves over the top of tender perennials after several hard freezes. The goal of winter mulch is to keep plants dormant through the winter, so it must be applied after the ground is cold and plants are fully dormant.

The timing of application will vary from year to year with the weather, but most years will be appropriate sometime between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

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,” Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606, or use the form at IndianaConnection.org.

product recalls adjustable desks could cause shocK

Toasters may ‘leak’ current

This recall involves Realspace Magellan Performance-Electric Height-Adjustable Desks. The desk’s control box has an electrical issue resulting in reverse polarity, which could pose a shock hazard.

Two models of the Bodum Bistro toaster in stainless steel have been recalled.

The toasters can “leak” electric current when operating at the maximum normal temperature, posing a shock hazard to consumers. No injuries have been reported in the United States, but there were eight reports of consumers being shocked when touching the toaster in Canada.

They were sold at Office Depot stores and online at officedepot. com from April 1, 2017 through Feb. 22, 2019 for about $500.

The desks came in espresso or cherry colors and have the Office Depot SKU number 358370 (espresso) or 216230 (cherry) printed on a label located underneath the desk top. The desk’s control box is located under the desk on the right side and controls the desk’s upward and downward movements.

Call 800-949-9974; or visit www.officedepot.com and click on Recall Notices under Shopping at the bottom of the page for more information.

The toasters in the recall are a two-slice model with SKU 1070916-4 and a four-slice model with SKU 11840-16. They were sold at home appliance stores nationwide and online from September 2018 through June 2019 for between $24 and $44.

Call 833-722-6386; or visit www.bodum.com and click on Product Advisories 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.

NOVEMBER 2019

31

Hoosier Energy news

Critical device invented to protect the

electric grid

Fault recorders used where power lines interconnect, improve grid reliability One of the electric power industry’s

experiment with locating the source of

reactance, and the resistance, so we

most important goals is ensuring the

faults on the grid. “In those days, you

punched all of those figures into the

integrity of the power grid. Digital

did that with equipment that used a

program, and it was the basis for how

fault recorders are one technology used

galvanometer and a light beam reflected

we calculated a fault’s location,” said

to monitor operations at substations

on photo paper,” Eslinger recalled. “It

Eslinger. A third party data storage

and power plants throughout North

produced squiggly little waveforms

company combined the concept with

America. The devices continually

on the paper, and we would measure

digital storage, and the digital fault

monitor the flow of electricity in and

them with a ruler. We knew how many

recorder was born.

out of these locations. These devices are

volts and amps were present, so we

always on and they detect abnormalities

could use the waveforms to estimate a

such as spikes in the flow of energy.

fault’s location. It was a cumbersome

This information is recorded and

process, but it gave us a picture of what

relayed so improvements can be made.

happened.”

You may be surprised to learn that this

Thinking digital technology might

problem is and what the nearest pole

critically important equipment is the

make it easier and faster to perform

number is. That saves the member from

direct result of experiments conducted

the computations, Eslinger brought

being without power.

by Hoosier Energy employees in the

in his personal computer to develop

early 1980s.

an algorithm that simplified the

Meter Relay Working Foreman

computation process.

The technology instantly alerts system controllers to problems and pinpoints their location, so crews can be dispatched more quickly. “Now we have a GPS map that shows exactly where the

Eslinger modestly chuckled at being called an innovator, adding “I feel good that I worked on something that

Donnie Eslinger (pictured above)

“We knew the size of the conductors,

benefits the industry and is used all over

took advantage of some downtime to

structures mounted on the line, the

the United States.”

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A Christmas trip back in time The simplicity of a “Currier and Ives Christmas” may seem long ago and far away. But it can be as near as your breath in the frosty air before you if you plan to spend just a little time in Shipshewana this holiday season.

The northern Indiana town and the surrounding LaGrange County, home to third largest Amish community in the nation and a large community of Mennonites, harken back to another time and welcome visitors with warmth and hospitality. Out on the backroads, visitors will find many home- and farmbased Amish cottage businesses, foods,

“Shipshewana is that wonderful combination of feeling like you’ve been transported back in time, while still enjoying modern day conveniences,” says Kelly Lynch, LaGrange County REMC communications specialist and a lifelong area resident. “During the holidays, it’s the perfect destination for relaxing and reconnecting with family and friends. Just remember to watch for buggies while on the search for those Amish fry pies!”

DEC. 27-28

Start your holiday season with a “click, click, click” of lights and St. Nick. The lighting starts at dusk (6 p.m.). Come earlier for all-day activities for kids and families. Santa will be located at the Davis Mercantile from 4-6 p.m. and from 7-9 p.m.

See teams of carvers creating themed sculptures from 10 am-8 pm at businesses throughout town on the 27th. Then on the 28th, the Wolfe Building parking lot will be the location for the ice carving competition (10 a.m.-1 p.m.) and the 2019 Chili Cook-off (11 a.m. until “they run out”).

NOV. 8-9, NOV. 21-DEC. 29

LIGHTS OF JOY

More than 2 million LED Christmas lights will create a mile-long symphony of various scenes in this drive-through experience at the Shipshewana RV Park. Admission fees per vehicle will apply and hours will vary.

DEC. 7 KIDS’ DAY

SANTA COMES TO TOWN HOLIDAY BAZAAR A day of fun activities will run from 10 a.m-3 p.m., and Santa Claus returns from noon to 3 p.m. at Farmstead Inn Expo Barn. The Ship Chic Craft Vintage Holiday Bazaar is a curated indoor handmade and vintage market featuring vendors who specialize in antiques, crafts, artisan goods, home and garden décor, baked goods, and so much more; 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Amish buggies parked at Yoder’s store in Shipshewana.

Social courtesies to keep in mind when visiting Amish country

and crafts. In town, a host of events with holiday themes are planned.

NOV. 9

LIGHTING OF SHIPSHEWANA LIGHT PARADE

travel

12TH ANNUAL ICE FESTIVAL

For a complete schedule and more information, call: 800-254-8090; or go to: VisitShipshewana.org.

The Amish community’s simple way of life is the reason many people visit — to observe, learn about, pay tribute to, and purchase items. The Shipshewana/ LaGrange County Visitors Center asks folks to keep these things in mind when visiting.

PLEASE SLOW DOWN AND TAKE EXTRA CAUTION AS YOU TRAVEL. Horse-drawn buggies follow the same road rules as motorized vehicles and have a right to be there.

PLEASE DON’T HONK AT THE HORSES PULLING BUGGIES. The sound easily could spook the horses.

PLEASE HONOR THEIR CULTURE AND DO NOT TAKE PHOTOS OF THEIR FACES. As part of their religious heritage, Amish believe photographs are “graven images.”

PLEASE DO STOP IN AT THEIR HOME BUSINESSES ON THE AMISH BACKROADS. You’ll see many signs on the county roads advertising these small “cottage businesses.” When you see a sign, you’re automatically invited to stop in.

PLEASE PLAN YOUR SCHEDULE ACCORDINGLY: Most shops are closed on Sunday so the Amish can honor the Sabbath with a day of rest and spend uninterrupted time with their family.

career profile

Motivated to

make a difference Top responsibilities in a day:

• Distribute materials. Review the line crew and contractor schedules and pick supplies based on the planned projects.

• Inventory control. Track supplies used and purchase materials to ensure the correct inventory is on-hand. On average, our cooperative builds approximately 30 miles of line per year.

What is your role?

I keep materials for lineworkers to access in the warehouse. This includes organizing, taking inventory, purchasing materials and working with contractors and vendors.

What’s a typical day like?

Each day is different, but I’m in a constant motion with a lot of requests for different projects and prioritizing each request. I work with many different types of people, both from within and outside the cooperative, and it’s necessary to greet and treat each person with courtesy and respect.

Jason Burton Operations Assistant/Materials Henry County REMC program that has helped me to understand the whats, whys and hows of line construction and maintenance. Purchasing the correct materials, safety equipment and tools are vital.

What makes you successful in your position?

Over recent years, technological advancements have changed our industry and the processes and procedures have changed along with it. Being able to adapt and grow is very important to the success of this position.

It helps that I have completed the non-indentured apprenticeship program through our electric cooperative. This is a three-year

In addition, willingness to be flexible to help other areas of the cooperative is a must. Whether

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NOVEMBER 2019

it is aiding efforts to educate youngsters in the community on electrical safety or showing appreciation by helping host an event to honor our membership, we must work together as a team to provide the cooperative difference for our members and the communities we serve.

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

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FEBRUARY 2019