Jay County REMC — October 2019 Indiana Connection

Employees participate in Community Day activities

We cooperative Calendar YouTube Student Art 2020

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OCTOBER AUGUST 2019

from the editor

Riddle me this

What can be seen once in a minute, twice in a moment and never in a thousand years? Are you perplexed by the question?

That’s what I love about brain teasers. You can ponder them for hours weighing all the possible — and impossible — answers. When you finally have that “aha” moment, or just finally give up and ask for the answer, it all suddenly makes sense. That moment of clarity is worth the sometimes tough mental workout you just underwent.

Brain teasers are a good way to keep your mind nimble when you notice it could use a tune-up. I enjoy engaging in these logic exercises because they force me to really listen and focus on just the facts. They prove that when we revise our way of thinking, we can come up with new solutions to everyday challenges. That’s something we all need to work on. Anyway, here are some of my favorite brain teasers.

What belongs to you but other people use it more than you? Your name.

What can travel around the world but stays in one corner? A stamp.

What’s full of holes but still holds water? A sponge.

How can you throw a ball as hard as possible only to have it come back to you (without bouncing off anything)?

By throwing it straight up in the air.

And, in case you’re obsessing over my first question, the answer is the letter “M.”

EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@indianaec.org

Giveaway: Enter to win four tickets to “A Merry Prairie Holiday” at

Conner Prairie, which starts on Nov. 29 and runs through Dec. 31. Details at www.indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests. Deadline to enter: Oct. 31. Lillian Palmer won the Fort Wayne prize package promoted in our September issue. Deborah Day won the four Holiday World tickets also promoted in our September issue.

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 4 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by:

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 Member Relations/ Advertising Manager Ellie Schuler Senior Communication Specialist Taylor Dawson Creative Services Specialist ADVERTISING: American MainStreet Publications Cheryl Solomon, local ad representative; 512-441-5200; amp.coop Crosshair Media 502-216-8537; crosshairmedia.net Paid advertisements are not endorsements by any electric cooperative or this publication.

UNSOLICITED MATERIAL: Indiana Connection does not use unsolicited freelance manuscripts or photographs and assumes no responsibility for the safe‑keeping or return of unsolicited material.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $12 for individuals not subscribing through participating REMCs/RECs. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Readers who receive Indiana Connection 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: 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.

OCTOBER 2019

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contents

OCTOBER

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16

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

10 ENERGY Does your home make the grade?

12 B ROADBAND SUCCESS STORIES How high-speed internet has helped the Mowery family.

30

Indiana eats 14 COUNTY OF THE MONTH Spotlighting Parke County.

16 INDIANA EATS Huber’s restaurant still serving down-home meals.

17 FOOD Hog wild: Pork and sausage recipes take center stage.

20 COVER STORY Cooperative Calendar of

pets

Indiana Connection

travel

26 EVENTS CALENDAR

31 RECALLS

28 DIY 10 steps to a cleaner car.

32 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS

29 SAFETY Be aware of overhead power lines.

30 PETS Don’t let your pet’s gobble-uns get it.

(Not in all versions)

Student Art winners.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

33 33 TRAVEL Conner Prairie’s Headless Horseman.

(Not in all versions) 34 PROFILE Brandon Hall: Managing technology that drives our industry.

On the cover Danielle Sommerman sits at her drawing table at her English, Indiana, home. The Crawford County High School student was named “Artist of the Year” in last spring’s Cooperative Calendar of Student Art contest.

PHOTO BY RICHARD G. BIEVER

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OCTOBER 2019

co-op news CONTACT US Office: 260-726-7121 / 800-835-7362 WEBSITE www.jayremc.com EMAIL remc@jayremc.com OFFICE HOURS 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday STREET ADDRESS 484 S. 200 W. Portland, IN 47371 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 904 Portland, IN 47371 POWER OUTAGES To report a power outage, call 260-726-7121 or 800-835-7362, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Brian Addington Kenneth Denton Kent Homan Klint Moser Michael Ninde Steven D. Ritchie Diane Schrock, Secretary Ronald Smithson Tom Zimmerman, Chairman STAFF Mark Arnold President/CEO Becky Napert Business Manager Dwayne Muhlenkamp Operations Superintendent Jeff Myers Assistant Operations Superintendent Cindy Denney Director of Marketing and Customer Services

ENERGY-SAVING

Tip

Cooler weather is here! With proper equipment maintenance and upgrades like additional insulation and air sealing, you can save about 30% on your energy bill. — U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

Community focused When you think of October, pumpkins, Halloween and beautiful fall foliage naturally come to mind. But October is notable for another reason — it’s National Co-op Month.

This is the time of year when cooperatives across the country, including Jay County REMC, celebrate who we are and more importantly, the members we serve and the community we belong to.

Cooperatives are different than other types of businesses. When the market declines to offer a product or service, or does so at a very high price, co-ops intervene to fill the need.

Similar to how Jay County REMC was built by members who came together to bring electricity to our community, cooperatives are conveners for the common good. Your electric co-op exists to provide safe, reliable and affordable energy to you, the members of the co-op. Equally important is our mission to enrich the lives of the members we serve.

As a co-op, we are well-suited to meet the needs of the community because we are locally governed. Jay County REMC’s leadership team and employees live right here in the community. Our board of directors, who helps set long-term priorities for the co-op, lives locally on co-op lines.

These board members have been elected to the position by neighbors like you.

We know our members (that’s you!) have a valuable perspective. That’s why we are continually seeking your input. Whether through community events, our Facebook page or the annual meeting, we want to hear from you.

Our close connection to the community ensures we get a first-hand perspective on local priorities, thereby enabling us to make more informed decisions on longterm investments, such as equipment and technology upgrades.

Another feature that sets our co-op apart from a traditional utility is one of our core principles: Concern for Community.

Ultimately, the larger community benefits from programs, such as our school safety demonstrations and youth programs, because of you and your neighbors.

You empower the co-op through your membership and through your participation and support of these programs.

We hope you will think of Jay County REMC as more than your energy provider, but instead as a local business that supports this community and powers economic development and prosperity for the people.

We will continue to learn from our members about their priorities so that we can better serve you — because your electric co-op was built by the community, for the community.

MARK ARNOLD President/CEO

your electric co-op was built by the community, for the community

co-op news

Sidelines

What’s happening in your community

• Oct. 2: Main Street U.S.A. Dunkirk.

West Jay Middle School. Arts and crafts, homemade food. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Brenda Brumfield, 765-808-1292.

• Oct. 5-6: Museum of the Soldier Open House. Noon-4 p.m. Jim, 260-729-7017, or museum@bright.net.

• Oct. 10: Arby’s Cruise-In. Arby’s Restaurant, Portland. 5-8 p.m.

• Oct. 10-12: 15th Annual Tri-State Swap & Sell Meet. Tri-State Club Grounds.

Antique engines and tractors. Admission charge. Chris Englehardt, 260-334-5516, or tristategasenfinetractor.com.

• October 11, 12, 13: 48th Annual Winchester 400. Winchester Speedway.

Friday: Gates open 10 a.m., action at 1 p.m., and features at 6 p.m. Saturday: Pits open 8:30 a.m., gates open 10 a.m.,

action at 11 a.m., and features at 5 p.m.

Sunday: Pits open 8:30 a.m., gates open 10 a.m., and features at 2 p.m.

Admission charge. 765-584-9701.

• Oct. 11-12, 18-19 and 25-26. Annual Haunted Woods. Sponsored by Dunkirk Fire Department. 7:30-11 p.m.

Admission charge. 765-768-6122.

• Oct. 12: Redkey Fall Festival. Pumpkin carving and lots of family fun. Mark, 260-729-7040, or leavell.mark@yahoo. com.

• Oct. 19: Pennville Pumpkin Festival Pennville Park. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Food, vendors, demonstrations, contest and games. Cindy Adair, 260-731-3221.

• Oct. 22: Jay County Historical Society Monthly Program. 7 p.m. Free. 260-7267168.

• Oct. 26: Guided Tour of the Music of the Wild Nature Preserve. Limberlost State Historical Site. 9 a.m.-Noon. $5/person.

260-368-7428.

• Oct. 27: Food & Drink Festival. Jay County Event Center. 4-7 p.m. Jay County Chamber of Commerce, 260-726-4481, or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ jaycountychamberofcommerce/.

• Oct. 31: Merchant Trick or Treat Night.

Downtown Portland. 5-7 p.m. Jay County Chamber of Commerce, 260726-448.

— Sidelines information courtesy of Jay County and Randolph County Chambers of Commerce.

DRAWING WINNER The winner of the $50 gift certificate to Swiss Heritage Village was Debbie J. of Jay County.

Win a $50 bill credit Follow these simple steps for your chance to win $50 in electricity.

Clip the coupon below. Complete and return the form to the office with your monthly payment before the last working day of the month.

AUGUST WINNER: Chester H. of Jay County

NAME: ACCOUNT NO.: PHONE NO.:

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OCTOBER 2019

Making a difference!

On Oct. 26, volunteers across the nation will unite with a common mission — to improve the lives of others. For more than 20 years, USA WEEKEND Magazine, in collaboration with Points of Light, has brought you “Make A Difference” Day, the largest national day of community service.

Crossroads Financial Federal Credit Union (a financial cooperative) will be “making a difference” on Oct. 26 from 9 a.m.-Noon by conducting a bucket drop at Meridian and Votaw streets in Portland to benefit area food banks. The credit union is celebrating its 10th year of collecting food and donations at all its branches.

Crossroads’ efforts have raised over $20,000 for area food banks. If you would like to volunteer, contact Jeanna Ford at 260-726-2142, ext. 2031.

The event is also an excellent opportunity to celebrate National Cooperative Month in October and to demonstrate the cooperative principle of concern for community.

co-op news

Show your card and save!

In honor of National Cooperative Month, show your Co-op Connections Card this month, and every month, to get discounts at the below participating businesses.

Don’t have a Co-op Connections Card?

Contact the REMC at 260-726-7121 or 800835-7362 or stop by the REMC office. You can also email denneyc@jayremc.com.

All Circuit Electric, Bryant 2% off a generator.

Balloon Elations, Portland 10% off purchase.

Bickel Equipment Rental, Portland 10% off rental of a bouncehouse.

Buffalo Wings and Rings, Portland $5 off of $25.

Cook’s Nursery and Trim, Portland $10 off the purchase of a tree.

Creative Awards and Gifts, Portland 10% off purchase.

Crossroads Financial FCU $5 initial deposit to open a savings account.

Applies at Dunkirk, Portland and Winchester locations.

Dave’s Heating and Cooling, Portland 2% discount on a new heat pump.

Display Craft, Portland 10% off purchase.

Evans Pines Nursery, Albany $2 off a tree.

Fastenal, Portland 10% off purchase of $100 or more.

The Flower Nook, Portland 10% off purchase.

Gersh Carpet Cleaning, Monroe $25 off minimum charge.

Greek’s Pizzeria, Portland 10% off purchase.

IDC, Pennville Free cup of coffee with entrée.

J & N Bargain Shop, Bryant 10% discount.

Jamar TV Appliance and Bedding, Portland Free bed frame with purchase of mattress set.

Joe on the Go, Portland 10% off purchase.

John Jay Center for Learning, Portland $20 off room rental.

Locker’s Touch of Country, Portland 10% off purchase.

Lutes and Sons Septic Service, Portland $15 off service.

Mainstream Furniture and Upholstery, Portland 10% off labor on custom or recovered furniture.

Manor Monument, Salamonia 10% off monument.

Medler Furniture, Portland 10% off already low prices.

Miles Mowing, Portland 10% off a scoop of mulch.

New Look Exteriors, Geneva 10% discount.

Norm’s Place 2, Portland Purchase $5.99 meal, get free coffee.

Patriot Fitness, Portland $99 six-month gym membership. Buy four massages, get one free.

Patriot Sportswear, Portland 10% off purchase. Excludes class jackets.

Portland Best One, Portland $5 off an oil change.

Portland True Value, Portland $5 off a $25 or more purchase.

Progressive Office Supply, Portland 10% discount off non-sale items. One hour of free computer service, in store only (a $55 value).

Remember When, Portland 20% off Crossroads Candles.

Ritz Theatre, Portland $1 off combo special at concession stand.

Sertech, Portland 5% off purchase.

Sneezers, Portland 5% off parts.

Strohl Appliance and Electronics, Portland Purchase three scrapbook pages at regular price, receive the fourth free (of equal or lesser value).

Union City Christian Bookstore, Union City 20% off purchase.

UpperKut, Portland 20% off product.

Valentine Feed and Supply, Portland 3% off purchase.

If you are a local business wishing to be part of the Co-op Connections Card program, you can at no cost. Contact Cindy Denney at 260-726-7121 or 800-835-7362 or denneyc@ jayremc.com to sign up.

Win a $50 gift certificate!

Name: ___________________________________________________________ Account number: ___________________________________________________ Phone number: ____________________________________________________ Complete this form for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to one of your favorite Co-op Connections Card businesses. Mail entry to Jay County REMC, P.O. Box 904, Portland, IN 47371.

You may also call 800-835-7362, ext. 225, or drop off your entry at the REMC. Entries can be emailed to denneyc@jayremc.com. Drawing will be held Oct. 31 at 4:30 p.m.

OCTOBER 2019

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co-op news

Q&A All about capital credits WHAT ARE CAPITAL CREDITS?

construction. As the board of directors review our

Because Jay County REMC is a coop-

financials each year, board

erative, owned by its members, it does

members determine when

not technically earn profits. Instead, any

those capital credits can be

revenues over and above the cost of do-

returned to members.

ing business are considered “margins.”

DOES A MEMBER HAVE TO DO ANYTHING TO START ACCUMULATING CAPITAL CREDITS?

These margins represent an interest-free loan of operating capital by the membership to the cooperative. This capital allows Jay County REMC to finance

County REMC and are eligible for a capital credit refund, you will receive a letter in the mail.

County REMC for everyone who pur-

WHAT YEARS WILL BE RETURNED THIS CYCLE?

chased electricity during a year in which

All of the credits earned by members of

the utility earned margins. No special

the Jay County REMC through the years

action is required to start a capital credits

1969, 1970, 1971, 1972 and 1973.

As a cooperative member, you have the

account. Membership with Jay County

unique opportunity to be an own-

REMC activates a capital credits account.

er-member in our business. Each year,

IF I AM AN HEIR, HOW DO I MAKE A CLAIM?

HOW ARE CAPITAL CREDITS CALCULATED?

operations and — to a certain extent — construction, with the intent that this capital will be repaid in later years.

CAPITAL CREDITS: HOW DO THEY WORK?

we take all remaining margins and hold them aside to return to our members.

Capital credits are calculated by Jay

If the member named on the account is deceased, an authorized heir may claim

The amount of capital credits earned in

the credit. Simply contact our office at

a given year is based upon the amount

260-726-7121 or 800-835-7362 and re-

of capital contributed through pay-

quest the capital credit form. If an estate

ment of your monthly bills. The more

is still active, the executor may com-

electric service purchased, the greater

plete the paperwork. The form will need

the capital credits account —although

to be notarized and returned. Payments

the percentage will remain the same.

will be processed each month and

The sum of monthly bills for a year is

mailed to you based on the information

multiplied by a percentage to determine

provided.

Paying back capital credits immedi-

capital credits.

It is illegal to have an account in the

ately is not ideal, because we want to

HOW WILL I KNOW IF I AM ELIGIBLE FOR A CAPITAL CREDIT REFUND?

name of a person (or persons) that is

These margins are called capital credits.

The capital credits distributed to each member are determined by the electric use on his or her account for the specific year being returned.

WHY AREN’T CAPITAL CREDITS PAID BACK IMMEDIATELY?

keep our focus on maintaining a safe and reliable system. By keeping capital credits in the cooperative’s financials for a period of time, we are able to do necessary system maintenance and

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OCTOBER 2019

If you were or are a member of the Jay

deceased, so your help in updating our records is appreciated. Please direct any questions to Becky Napert, Jay County REMC business manager, 260-726-7121 or 800-835-7362.

energy

Does your home make the grade?

The HERS rating grades homes’ energy efficiency level Many first-time homebuyers are enthralled with their new purchase for many reasons. Some are excited to learn that their new house may be more energy efficient than their previous residence. The question is: how efficient?

Fortunately, the nonprofit Residential Network Energy Services (otherwise known as RESNET) created a nationally recognized standard to determine the energy efficiency level of all homes. The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index calculates your home’s energy use and provides a relative performance score.

Lower scores mean lower energy use – and a more

energy efficient home!

To calculate your home’s HERS Index score, a certified rater performs an assessment on your home and compares the data to a designedreference home of the same size and shape.

A HERS assessment includes collecting information about the home’s exterior walls, heating and cooling systems, windows, doors, attics, foundations, and air leaks. This is done during a visit to the home and typically takes two to four hours.

RESNET explains that a home with a HERS Index score of 70 means the home is 30 percent more energy efficient than the reference home;

a HERS Index of 130 would mean that the home is 30 percent less energy efficient than the reference home.

HERS Index scores are incredibly useful. A HERS rating can help differentiate a home you are selling, documenting how efficient it is. Energy efficient homes are often more attractive (and can likely get a higher price). If you are buying a home, a HERS assessment can provide details about areas of concern to identify what parts of the home should be improved if you do purchase the home. More information about the HERS Index is available at www.hersindex.com.

Your local electric co-op’s energy advisor can help answer your questions about determining your home’s energy efficiency with an energy audit.

While not the same as a HERS assessment, an energy audit will provide an in-depth analysis of your home to provide actionable steps you can take to make your home more energy efficient.

Contact your local electric cooperative to learn how you can make sure that your home passes the energy efficiency test!

by

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OCTOBER 2019

Brian Hawk

Energy Advisor Noble REMC

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.

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

Their

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

MODERN EDUCATION The Mowery family

When Jennifer and Patrick Mowery married in 2013, they knew they wanted to raise a family together.

Jennifer also longed for her small-town community of Crawfordsville, where much of her family still resided.

But they faced two major roadblocks – both of their careers were tied to Indianapolis and they had been unable to build on their family that already included a son from a previous marriage. Jennifer and Patrick decided to explore foster care and, in 2017, adopted a baby girl who had been placed in their care.

“I always wanted to raise my kids in the same rural community experience that I had where you wave at your neighbors and they wave back,” Jennifer said. “Now that we finally had our family, we really wanted to get back to the country and be close to my family.”

Jennifer had steadily built a career working as an accounts payable lead in the healthcare industry. She oversees a team that pays vendor invoices for hospitals. In 2017, her

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OCTOBER 2019

employer began allowing its staff to work remotely.

“It’s a great option, but you have to have fast and reliable internet to make it work,” Jennifer said.

Patrick and Jennifer heard about reliable and fast rural internet service being built by electric cooperatives.

It was a perfect fit for their dream.

They purchased their dream property in northern Montgomery County in May 2019 where Tipmont REMC has started building out its fiber internet service, and Jennifer now works remotely.

“I’m able to keep my career and raise our family the way that we wanted to.

I’m close to my family so they can be a big part of our lives,” Jennifer said.

“It’s mind-boggling to think how many pieces fell into place to make this possible for us.”

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!

county feature

Parke County

BY RICHARD G. BIEVER The west-central Indiana county named after Benjamin Parke, a founding father of Indiana, ends with an “e.” But the county’s cornucopia of well-preserved natural and man-made historical features gives Parke a larger-than-life “park-like” personality.

Countycts Fa FOUNDED: 1821

NAMED FOR: Benjamin Parke, a member of Indiana’s 1816 Constitutional Convention.

POPULATION: 16,927 (2019) COUNTY SEAT: Rockville HOME TO: Thirty-one historic covered bridges.

A myriad of recreational

event

opportunities.

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Parke County is best known for its 31 quaint covered bridges. But it’s also home to two outstanding state parks, a large reservoir and state recreation site, and popular shaded streams. Together, they provide recreational opportunities for individuals, families and groups to explore, shop for crafts and antiques, picnic, hike, camp, bicycle, bird and wildlife watch, ride horseback, fish, boat, canoe, kayak, and, after all that, just float on an inner tube.

Turkey Run State Park was the second state park established in 1916, Indiana’s centennial year. The park takes visitors tripping through time as they hike through deep ravines and sandstone gorges representing some 600 million years of nature’s handiwork and lets them marvel at old growth trees that create a thick canopy overhead. Flowing through the heart of the park, scenic Sugar

Parke County Covered Bridge Festival Oct. 11-20 | Admission: Free 765-569-5226 https://www.coveredbridges.com

OCTOBER 2019

The Bridgeton Covered Bridge was rebuilt in 2006 after an arsonist destroyed the original bridge.

Creek is a wonderful resource for canoeing and fishing. The park also offers more modern amenities like Turkey Run Inn that’s opened year-round, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a staffed nature center, and a planetarium.

About five miles up Sugar Creek from Turkey Run is Shades State Park. Though most of the park is in neighboring Montgomery County to the east, Shades straddles the corner of three counties: Montgomery, Parke and Fountain County to the north. Shades, too, offers the chance to explore deep sandstone ravines and stands of aged forests.

On the county’s eastern side is Raccoon State Recreation Area surrounding Cecil M. Harden Lake. The lake was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flood control in the late 1950s. As a byproduct, it provides a variety of water and outdoor recreation, wildlife habitat and economic benefits to the area.

The 31 covered bridges are Parke County’s main claim to fame, and Parke County bills itself as the “Covered Bridge Capital.” Between 1820 and 1920, about 500 covered bridges were built in Indiana, fewer than 100 remain. More than half of those that do are

in and around Parke County.

It’s an area with numerous streams and creeks flowing to the Wabash River which shapes Parke County’s western border with Vermillion County.

The bridges were covered to protect the wooden trusses and deck from rotting. While they came to symbolize rural America and a simple bucolic lifestyle, they became an impediment to agricultural progress as farming machinery grew larger and could not pass through them. Many places opted to remove the bridges as they deteriorated to improve transportation. Parke County saved many of its covered bridges by diverting the roadway around them on new modern bridges built alongside the covered bridge.

Many covered bridges come with the admonition in the arched woodwork entrances overhead: “Cross this bridge at a walk.” Originally it was meant for horse-drawn traffic to pass slowly. Now, the only way, in many cases, to cross them is on foot. And for a county that embraces its natural, rural and small town heritage, it’s good advice folks should heed almost anywhere they go on their walk in the park — in Parke County that is.

Richard G. Biever is senior editor of Indiana Connection.

Indiana’s largest festival, held throughout the county, showcases Parke’s 31 historic covered bridges and features authentic arts and crafts, food, two historic mills, and beautiful fall foliage.

OCTOBER 2019

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Indiana eats

Family fare

Huber’s restaurant still serving down-home meals

P H O TO P R O V I D E D

BY JOE HUBER’S FA M I LY FA R M & R E S TA U R A N T

BY RICHARD G. BIEVER

trying to be trendy: just making food the

shop. A mini farm/playground includes

A year ago, a cloud of uncertainty hung

way they were taught on the farm. That

pony rides and the chance for families to

over the future of the fertile u-pick fields

“true to the roots” way of preparing the

feed fish and ducks.

and home-style meals of Joe Huber’s

meals remains at the restaurant. Terra

Family Farm & Restaurant. The iconic

notes everything is freshly prepared and

agritourism destination atop the rolling

made from scratch.

knobs of Starlight was brought to a very

The menu includes Huber Honey Ham,

benefit the WHAS Crusade of Children,

public auction by a division in the family-

Chicken and Dumplings, a variety of

which raises funds to provide services

run business.

fresh vegetables, and homemade pies and

for special needs children. This coming

But after the final gavel, Huber fans in

cobblers. In the fall, ever-popular Waldorf

December, a holiday show and dinner will

the greater Louisville region heaved a

fruit salad is added to the menu.

be added to its menu.

collective sigh of relief. A group within

Many of the recipes are based on Bonnie’s

the Huber family was able to purchase

favorites and those of Mary Huber, Joe’s

RICHARD G. BIEVER IS SENIOR EDITOR OF INDIANA CONNECTION.

the heart of the business started in

mom, from back in the 1920s. Bonnie’s

1967 by family patriarch, the late Joe

country fried chicken features a secret

Huber, and matriarch, wife Bonnie.

ingredient that makes it some of the

“We never skipped a beat,” said Huber’s

region’s best — crunchy, golden, and

granddaughter, Terra Huber-Mahan,

juicy. This time of year, especially, it goes

director of sales and marketing. The

perfectly alongside a Huber hallmark:

restaurant remained open through it all.

fried biscuits with apple butter.

“They would be so proud their legacy was saved for all our customers,” Terra said.

The restaurant offers carry-out and also provides catering services up to a 50-60

The restaurant started in 1983. It was

mile radius. In addition, there’s a farm

among the nation’s first “farm-to-table”

market, soda and ice cream shop, and gift

restaurants. But the Hubers weren’t

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OCTOBER 2019

Autumn events at the farm include a maze and pumpkin patch with wagon rides. As in the past, pumpkin sales

JOE HUBER’S FAMILY FARM & RESTAURANT 2421 Engle Road, Borden (Starlight), IN 47106 812-923-5255 Monday-Saturday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

JoeHubers.com

food

hog wild Pork and sausage recipes take center stage

Pork Carnitas Joni Metzger Pierceton, Indiana

2 lbs. cooked, shredded pork loin 2 t. salt 1 t. cumin ½ t. black pepper 1 onion, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 bay leaves 1½ cup orange juice Juice of 2 limes 1 cup chicken broth Combine all ingredients in a baking dish. Cover dish with foil.

Bake at 350 F for 1 hour or until heated through. Serve with warm rice, black beans or tortillas. Add toppings of choice such as cheese, sour cream, lettuce, chopped tomatoes, salsa, guacamole, chopped green onions or cilantro.

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

Wonton Sausage Appetizers Suetta Tingler, Corydon, Indiana 25 count wonton wrappers 2 lbs. pork sausage, cooked and well-drained 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese ¾ cup ranch dressing Preheat oven to 350 F. Press a wonton wrapper into each cup of a muffin tin. Bake for 5 minutes.

Remove from oven and place wonton “cups” on a cookie sheet.

Repeat until there are about 25 cups. Mix sausage, cheeses, and dressing until well blended. Spoon mixture into wonton cups. Bake 5-10 minutes or until bubbly. (For bite-sized appetizers, use the smaller 50-count wonton wrappers and bake them in mini muffin tins.)

Wonton Sausage Appetizers Slow Cooker Pork Roast

Slow Cooker Pork Roast Charla Wallman, Topeka, Indiana 1 4-5 lb. pork roast 1 24-oz. can diced tomatoes 1 8-oz. can tomato sauce ½ cup brown sugar 2 T. Worcestershire sauce 1 t. minced garlic Salt and pepper to taste Place pork roast in slow cooker. Mix remaining ingredients in bowl and pour over pork roast. Cover and heat on low for 10-12 hours.

Cook’s notes: Serve with Caesar salad and crusty bread.

18

OCTOBER 2019

Danielle Sommerman BEST OF SHOW WINNER

The 2020 Cooperative Calendar

illustrating the month assigned to

of Student Art will be available for

their grade division. First graders in

distribution at participating Indiana

the 2018-19 school year were as-

electric co-op offices around the

signed January; second graders had

state in the coming weeks (... and

February; third graders had March;

CooperativE Calendar

into the mailboxes of consumers of

and so on, ending with 12th graders

Newton County REMC with their

illustrating December. Kindergart-

November issue of Indiana Connec-

ners were given the coveted cover

tion).

position which allowed them to

of

Here’s a preview of the 22nd annual

2020 Student Art BY RICHARD G. BIEVER

20

OCTOBER 2019

illustrate whatever they wanted.

edition of the calendar, and your

In addition to the 13 grade division

introduction to 2020’s “Artist of the

winners, nine additional works were

Year,” Crawford County High School

selected at large for honorable men-

student Danielle Sommerman.

tions. These works will appear in a

The calendar will be illustrated with

special section in the calendar.

the winning works from the stu-

A total of $3,375 in prize money was

dent art contest that Indiana electric

shared among the 22 student artists.

cooperatives held last spring. Over 1,800 entries from all grades, K-12, from all over Indiana were entered.

Information about the art contest to illustrate the 2021 calendar, which has a March 20, 2020, entry dead-

As with the previous contests, stu-

line, is now available at IndianaCon-

dents were asked to create artwork

nection.org.

Leaving a

legacy

‘Artist of the Year’ Shows Patience and persistence “Artist of the Year” Danielle Som-

goal — winning the “Best of Show”

but old — truck, for the calendar. “I

merman has a front-seat view of the

and earning the Artist of the Year title.

love reflections. The truck was just

vacated floodplain that once was the town of English.

Her winning work, illustrating October in the upcoming 2020 calendar, is a

like heaven for me because of all the different reflections,” she said.

Most of the town was chased to higher

detailed colored pencil illustration of

Danielle’s work first appeared in the

ground about a mile to the east in

a 1927 Ford Model AA truck hauling

student art calendar when she won an

the 1990s after yet another flood.

pumpkins. It’s a departure of her past

honorable mention as a third grader.

Where there once were driveways,

subjects which dealt with gardens and

She illustrated two happy slugs in a

buildings and lawns, there are now

nature. “I was a little bored with the

garden for March. In the 2015 calen-

fairways, bunkers and greens of a golf

nature stuff,” she noted. “I wanted to

dar, her water color of pink dogwood

course. “This is the shell of a town,”

see if I could do something as com-

blossoms illustrating May won the fifth

said Danielle. “I know the golf course

plex as a truck.”

grade division. She then switched her

has covered up most of it, but there’s broken glass bottles, rusty pieces of metal, old things everywhere.”

Earlier in the year, she had drawn a rusty old pickup truck that took first place in the annual art contest

medium of choice to colored pencils and since seventh grade has won her grade division every year.

Growing up in these surroundings,

sponsored by the Overlook Restau-

“I’ve been wanting the Best of Show

Danielle is keenly aware of how time

rant in Leavenworth. The theme had

since first grade,” she said, “and 10

and tide tear at all things. She artic-

to depict the effects of the time. Fresh

years later, I finally achieved it.”

ulates more of an urgency to make

off the success of that illustration, she

a mark in life than most 16-year-olds

chose another truck, a shiny new —

you’ll meet. “I don’t know how much of

CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

it has influenced my art,” she said. “I know it probably has subconsciously.

Even though there are so few people here, there’s all that stuff that’s left behind … like a legacy almost.”

For years now, Danielle, a junior at Crawford County High School, has been leaving a legacy of her own on walls of electric cooperative consumers all across Indiana. Her artwork has appeared in seven of the last eight editions of the Cooperative Calendar of Student Art, a wall calendar distributed by participating electric co-ops. This past spring, as a sophomore, she achieved her long-time

Always a perfectionist and her own biggest critic, Danielle Sommerman, right, discusses how she could have made her October illustration even better with her mom, Daffney, at the student artist reception and exhibit at the Indiana State Museum in August.

Judges selected her work, by the way, the “Best of Show.”

OCTOBER 2019

21

May: Fifth Grade, Ashelyn Evans

Cover: Kindergarten, Charles Quakenbush

July: Seventh Grade, Addysen Standish

January: First Grade, George Quakenbush

February: Second Grade, Abby Porter

March: Third Grade, Rileigh Hash

22

OCTOBER 2019

April: Fourth Grade, Oliver Lanam

September: Ninth Grade, Morgan Dyck

June: Sixth Grade, Naomi Kujak

Danielle Sommerman’s winning October artwork shown on page 20

August: Eighth Grade, Andrew Zink

November: 11th Grade, Evan Olinger

December: 12th Grade, Lexi Harford

Check the November issue to learn how to purchase a 2020 calendar.

OCTOBER 2019

23

Honorable

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Mentions

Along with art, Danielle has other passions. She is 54,000 words into a young adult science fiction novel she started writing a couple of years ago. For a career, she wants to pursue her love of chemistry.

“Seeing the sheer amount of plastic and pollution in our world and in our oceans fills me with so much rage,” she said. “I might as well make that rage a part of my career — and chemistry is my favorite class. I absolutely love the reactions ... there is just undying curiosity there. So maybe I could develop something to help

Danielle Sommerman’s honorable mention artwork from the 2013 calendar.

to mind Danielle’s first success in the art contest with the little garden mollusks.

Quirkily, snails and slugs are a universal symbol of stability and persistence.

That’s the kind of stick-toitiveness Danielle and so many other student artists have shown pursuing and then achieving the Artist

icant and transient slug or snail leaves a little part of

subjects, but Danielle

itself behind as it passes

approaches art almost as if

through this green earth —

she’s joining different mol-

an iridescent legacy on a

ecules to create something

dull concrete slab.

finished, there is an object you can look at. A photo didn’t do that. Technology didn’t do that. My hands and some supplies did that.”

On the front steps leading up to Danielle’s home, the silvery tell-tale trail left by a tiny snail or slug glistens in the afternoon sun. It brings

24

OCTOBER 2019

David White, third grade

Addie Otte, fourth grade

Mia Fang, eighth grade

Clare Kramer, ninth grade

they also symbolize what

seem like disparate

And when the process is

Phil Carnes, second grade

years. In a whimsical way,

Art and chemistry might

supplies, and my hands.

Lucy O’Bryan, kindergarten

of the Year honor over the

artists do, what all human-

starts, I have a paper, some

Each year after the judges select the 13 grade division winners in the calendar art contest, other top works from the various grades are pulled aside. From these, nine additional works are selected at large to receive honorable mentions. Here are the honorable mention winners from this year’s contest. These works will appear in a special four-page section in the 2020 calendar.

slow steady progression,

our world,” she added.

new. “When the process

NINE ADDITIONAL WORKS HONORED

ity does. Even an insignif-

Danielle still has a lifetime journey ahead, but she’s already thinking about her legacy. “I want people to remember me by the things I did in my life,” she said. “So, my art, my writing, maybe something with the chemistry path I’m choosing — whichever

Adalia Knakiewicz, ninth grade

route I stick to — I want people to remember me.”

Richard G. Biever is senior editor of Indiana Connection.

Trinity Hess, 11th grade

Erin Starkweather, 10th grade

calendar NORTHWEST

18-19 25-26 31 25

HAUNTED ADAMS MILL, Cutler (Carroll), Adams Mill. Ghostly tours of the historic mill. Tractor-drawn hayrides through the haunted forest and campfire treats. 6-10 p.m. Admission charge. 765-564-6757. adams-mill.org

Nov.

SLIGHTLY SCARY GHOST STORIES WITH DOYNE CARSON, Delphi (Carroll), Delphi Opera House.

Come in costume. Free. 7-9 p.m. 765-564-4300. info@ delphioperahouse.org. www.delphioperahouse.org

10Dec.

31

“A CHRISTMAS STORY” COMES HOME, Hammond (Lake), Indiana Welcome Center. Special events, contests and photos with Santa.

Take your picture with “Flick” on our flagpole and browse the official “A Christmas Story” merchandise. Free. 219-989-7979.

AChristmasStoryComesHome.com

CENTRAL

1926

IRVINGTON HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL, Irvington (Marion), various locations.

Oldest and largest festival in the country. Street fair, parade, contests, vendors and arts. Free. irvingtonhalloween.com

Nov.

DELTA THETA TAU ANTIQUE SHOW, Franklin (Johnson), Johnson County Fairgrounds.

Food served continually. Proceeds support local charities. 9 a.m.4 p.m. $3 admission charge.

Parking free. 317-694-8052.

2

Nov.

3

SMORGASBORD AND BAZAAR, West Point (Tippecanoe), 4923 Monroe St. Pulled pork, fried chicken, baked ham, chickenn-noodles; assorted vegetables, salads and desserts; rolls and drinks. Carry out available. 4-7 p.m. Adults, $10; children 6-12, $5; children five and under, free.

765-237-2728. jkchase@tds.net.

SOUTHWEST

19

LIVE TALENT SHOWCASE, Mitchell (Lawrence), Mitchell Opera House.

Open to community members of all ages residing in Crawford, Greene, Jackson, Martin, Monroe, Lawrence, Orange, and Washington counties. Grand prize is $1,000. Tickets, $10. 7-9 p.m. 812-849-4447. aprince@hoosieruplands. org. www.mitchelloperahouse.com

20

ANNUAL CHICKEN DINNER, Paoli (Orange), Christ the King Catholic Church.

Chicken dinner and games for children. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $10, adults; $5, children 5-10; children four and under, free. Sixteen-piece bucket of chicken, $25. 812-723-3900. christtheking1948@gmail.com. www.occ-indy.org

26

OCTOBER 2019

Nov.

1-2

GASTHOF HOLIDAY BAZAAR, Montgomery (Daviess), Amish Village.

Vendors, handmade crafts, jewelry, home décor.

Homemade Amish buffet, bakery and gift shops. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Free. 812-486-4900. gasthofamishvillage. com

OCT.

NOV.

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

NORTHEAST

26

MARSHALL COUNTY MUSEUM GHOST WALK, Plymouth (Marshall), Marshall County Museum. Spooky tours and storytelling. 7 p.m. Cost: $10.

574-936-2306. mlangdon@mchistoricalsociety.org. www.mchistoricalsociety.org.

Nov.

DELTS’ HOLIDAY CRAFTS AND GIFTS SHOW, Portland (Jay), Jay County High School. Over 150 booths. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Food available all day. All proceeds go help others. Admission charge. 260-726-6729. dttcraftshow@ yahoo.com. visitjaycounty.com

9

SOUTHEAST

19

11TH ANNUAL TRAIN SHOW AND SWAP MEET, Jeffersonville (Clark), First Presbyterian Church. Model train items for sale along with running displays. Cost: canned item for local food bank. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 502-415-2194, 812-282-1658 or 502-424-8682. trainnutt56@yahoo.com. www.southernindianarailroad.com

Nov.

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR, Charlestown (Clark), Clark County Fairgrounds.

Sponsored by the Tunnel Mill Tigers 4-H Club. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. 812-9893988. dtrotter@cwgo.com.

2

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.

Indiana Connection Marketplace QUESTIONS ABOUT ADVERTISING IN INDIANA CONNECTION? Email info@indianaconnection.org.

SHERLOCK HOLMES WEEKEND: NOV. 1 & 2

DICKENS VICTORIAN VILLAGE: NOV. 1 – JAN. 1

The Game’s Afoot!

Holmes & Watson return to Cambridge, OH, for The Case of the Christmas Carbuncle.

Experience old world England through an innovative public art exhibit, architecture & more in downtown Cambridge, OH.

VisitGuernseyCounty.com

DickensVictorianVillage.com OCTOBER 2019

27

do-it-yourself

It’s all in the detailing 10 STEPS TO A CLEANER CAR If we’re not at home or at work, most of us are in our vehicles. And, let’s be honest here: we can be pretty messy when we’re on the road.

Keeping your car clean and free of dirt and grime can actually make your life seem a little less chaotic because less mess does equal less stress! An automobile that is regularly cleaned and detailed also retains its resale value — and that is important when you want to sell it or trade it in for a new one.

Here are 10 things you should do to get your car looking bright, shiny, fresh and clean: STEP 1 Clear and clean the cup holders. For a quick clean, place a used sock over the bottom of a travel cup, apply window cleaner, and twist. Make sure to use a cloth to get in the corners.

STEP 2 Remove crevice dirt. Start by picking up any change, pens, keys or other debris with your hands. Then, try using a barbecue skewer to pick out the trash and items wedged in the hard-to-reach areas. Vacuum the area using the sweeper’s crevice tool (the flat

28

attachment on the end). Finish off with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth.

STEP 3 Get those corners. Clean out tight interior areas, such as vents, seams, buttons and switches with wood skewers or cotton swabs. Louvers and vents and be cleaned using old make-up brushes.

STEP 4 Deep-clean interior fabrics. Spray already cleaned carpets and cloth seats lightly with a foaming aerosol cleaner. When it starts to dry, use a vacuum to remove it. To get a deeper clean, you can rent a carpet cleaner from an area store.

STEP 5 Careful with plastics. Use an ammonia-free glass cleaner on your vehicle’s plastic surfaces.

Ammonia can cause bleaching to those surfaces.

STEP 6 Do a last sweeping. With a vacuum, do a second pass of your vehicle to pick up any dirt freed during the cleaning.

STEP 7 Avoid washing in direct sunlight. This prevents any possible damage if the paint gets too hot when you’re washing and

waxing. When washing, start at the top and work your way down using a mitt/rag, gentle soap, and water.

Car surfaces are the grungiest as you get lower to the ground, and dirt can end up on your cleaning cloth/mitt, causing scratches.

STEP 8 Use a clay bar. After your car has dried, consider using a clay bar (available at retail outlets and auto stores) across the body panels to remove any remaining dirt. The bar can also get windows sparkling clean.

STEP 9 Shine those rims. Brake dust, tar, and road grime that’s very hard to remove can cling to your tire rims. To get them glistening, look for a wheel cleaner that’s safe for all surfaces. Avoid harsh cleaners, such as dish soap, that can damage a wheel’s finish. In tight areas, use a sponge and softbristled toothbrush to apply the cleaner. Rinse with water. Go over any spots you missed.

STEP 10 Wait to drive. Cleaners, especially those for a car’s exterior, stay wet for a while, which can attract dirt when you drive. Make sure the vehicle is dry prior to driving it.

SOURCE: CONSUMERREPORTS.COM

OCTOBER 2019

safety

Be Aware of Overhead Power Lines

When should you look up for overhead power lines?

LOOK UP for power lines when using tools of any kind,

WHEN IN DOUBT, LOOK UP AND OUT

especially when trees are nearby. Branches can hide power lines from view.

Even non-metallic tools can

Whether you’re on the job

overhead line, both you and

both feet together. No part

or working on an outdoor

the equipment can become

of your body should touch

project around your home,

a path for the electricity.

the equipment and the

LOOK UP when

you should always be aware

Look up and out in front of

ground at the same time.

using cranes or

of overhead electrical lines.

you before using a ladder,

Hop or shuffle away from

other lifting devices

Many workplace fatalities are

large machinery, or a pool

the equipment with your

that approach

caused by overhead power

cleaning net. Even non-me-

feet together to reduce the

lines. Imagine how easy it is

tallic ladders and equipment

risk of electric shock.

working distance within

for us at home, who are not

can conduct electricity.

If you come across some-

trained to avoid these obsta-

conduct electricity.

20 feet of power lines.

LOOK UP for

Using large tools or ma-

one who’s hit an overhead

chinery can make it harder

power line, stay away and

“In a majority of cases,

to avoid overhead power

warn others around to not

fatalities occurred in oc-

lines. Always consider

touch him or her, or you

cupations with little to no

where power lines are

could get shocked, too.

electrical safety training,”

before you begin a project.

Immediately call 911 and

said John Gasstrom, CEO of

Scanning the area should

then contact your electric

Indiana Electric Coopera-

be part of your plan from

cooperative to turn off the

tives. “That’s why we put so

the start. Once you begin

electricity at your location.

much emphasis on safety

making safety part of your

training and compliance

routine, it’ll become sec-

If you know you’re going

up and determine

education, not only for our

ond nature when you run

to be working near power

the overhead clearance from

cooperative employees, but

through your day-to-day

lines, contact your electric

the top of the tree. Trees can

electrical safety checklist.

co-op so the experts there

conduct electric current.

cles, to run into danger!

our consumers as well.”

can properly inform you When working on an out-

If you’ve struck a power

on safety precautions you

door project, stay at least 10

line and must get off the

should be taking in your

feet away from overhead

equipment, jump as far

area. Electrical safety is one

lines. If your ladder or piece

away from the equipment

of our top priorities for our

of equipment touches an

as you can and land with

consumers.

power lines when putting up scaffolding, framing a building, painting, pruning trees or picking fruit.

LOOK UP before moving a tree under a power line. Look

LOOK UP for power lines when working on top of buildings.

OCTOBER 2019

29

Thursa Short shows off an exhibit at the Randolph County Historial Society.

Safeguarding our past Walking across the threshold at the Randolph County Historical Society is an opportunity to step back in time and learn of the past. Jay County REMC member Thursa Short wants to keep the rich history of Randolph County alive by sharing the amazing stories and by showing historical documents and artifacts.

One of the first stories she loves to tell visitors is the history of the house that is home to the society. The house was built in 1858 by Carey and Lydia Goodrich. In the over 150 years since the home was built, only five families lived there. In 1969, it became home for the Randolph County Historical Society.

“We found that most people who come to the Randolph County Historical Society are looking for information about ancestors.

So, our genealogy section is widely used,” Short said.

The society also has an amazing museum annex that was added in 2002. It is home to military memorabilia, native artifacts, cemetery records, courthouse records and township school class pictures.

30

OCTOBER 2019

“Our desire for the society is to keep the spirit of history alive so we can learn from the past,” continued Short.

With the help of volunteers like Short, the history of Randolph County will not be forgotten. Maybe, you, too, would like to become a volunteer.

Another interesting event the society hosts is a wake in the parlor of the old Goodrich house. The home has a haunting history. It is said that the spirit of 8-year-old Emma Jane Goodrich, who passed away in 1860, is an occasional special visitor during Halloween.

The Randolph County Historical Society will be open for special tours during the

month of October. It will also be open on Winchester’s treat-or-trick night on Oct. 31 to promote the museum and ensure a safe Halloween experience.

The Randolph County Historical Society, located at 416 S, Meridian St., Winchester, is open by appointment for guided or selfguided tours. If you are interested in a tour call 765-584-1334 or email rchmuseum@ gmail.com.

Your organization or family can rent the museum for a small gathering of up to 75 people. On Oct. 22, the Winchester Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its quarterly meet and greet luncheon at the society.

Win a free room rental at Randolph County Historial Society Name: ___________________________________________________________ Account number: ___________________________________________________ Phone number: ____________________________________________________ Complete this form for a chance to win a free room rental courtesy of Randolph County Historical Society and Jay County REMC. Mail entry to Jay County REMC, P.O. Box 904, Portland, IN 47371. You may also call 800-835-7362, ext. 225, or drop off your entry at the REMC. Entries can be emailed to denneyc@jayremc.com. Drawing will be held Oct. 31 at 4:30 p.m.

product recalls

Apple recalls 15-inch MacBook Pro laptop computers due to fire hazard Apple has recalled almost a half million 15-inch MacBook Pro laptops because the batteries can overheat and pose a fire hazard.

The recalled laptop computers have a 15.4-inch (diagonal) display, 2.2-2.5 GHz processors, 256GB-1TB solid-state storage, two Thunderbolt 2 ports, two USB 3 ports, and one HDMI port. Consumers can determine if their laptop computer is included in this recall by checking the laptop’s serial number at https://support.apple.com/15-inchmacbook-pro-battery-recall.

The serial number can be found on the underside of the laptop computer or by choosing “About This Mac” from the Apple menu. Only MacBook Pro 15-inch model laptop computers with certain serial numbers are included.

Apple has received 26 reports of the laptop’s battery overheating, including five reports of minor burns and one report of smoke inhalation, as well as 17 reports of minor damage to nearby personal property.

The laptops were sold at Apple and electronics stores nationwide, and online from September 2015 through February 2017 starting at about $2,000.

APPLE: Call 800-275-2273, or visit www.apple.com, https://support.apple.com/15-inch-macbook-pro-battery-recall.

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OCTOBER 2019

31

Wabash Valley Power news

During National Cooperative Month, remember that it pays to save!

October is National Cooperative Month, and you can celebrate by checking out some of the unique opportunities that your local electric co-op offers through its Power Moves® program.

As you may know, we at Wabash Valley Power are a generation and transmission cooperative created by and composed of our member co-ops. We partner with all 23 of our members to offer expertise, incentives, and rebates. This reflects your local electric co-op’s commitment to the Cooperative Principles in multiple ways:

MEMBERS ARE (POSITIVELY) FINANCIALLY IMPACTED BY POWER MOVES INCENTIVES. One of the seven principles, Members’ Economic Participation, is reflected in the Power Moves programs.

Homeowners may have the opportunity to participate in PowerShift, a program that shifts participants’ energy use to times of the day when electricity is less expensive. Shifting when electricity is used helps lower peak power demand that keeps wholesale power and energy more affordable for everyone.

Additionally, homeowners might receive a rebate for an energy efficiency upgrade, which also saves money in long-term energy costs. Business

32

OCTOBER 2019

owners can take advantage of Power Moves rebates for energy efficiency upgrades at new facilities or when relocating to an area served by your local cooperative. Businesses often use incentives such as these to invest more in their operations; in some cases, a local community’s incentives (including Power Moves rebates) can directly influence where a business owner decides to locate the company.

across Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri that partner together to create the Power Moves program. By offering the program collectively to more than 310,000 families, farms, and businesses, we can run the program in a more cost-effective way that might not be otherwise possible.

POWER MOVES PROVIDES ENERGY EFFICIENCY EXPERTISE. The Cooperative

Moves, we say that it pays to save – literally! Power Moves is a win-win program that reflects the cooperative principle Concern for Community. Coop members earn rebates for qualifying energy efficiency upgrades to their home or business that reduce their long-term energy use. Reducing energy consumption benefits the environment because fewer resources are needed to power those homes and businesses.

Principles call for Education, Training, and Information for the co-op’s members. The Power Moves team partners with your local cooperative’s energy advisor, facility managers, and many others to offer information on topics ranging from energy efficient homes, heating and cooling systems, and electric vehicles to retrofit upgrades that can lower long-term energy costs.

We even have a list of Do-It-Yourself energy efficiency projects that you can do to improve your home!

YOUR LOCAL COOPERATIVE PARTNERS WITH ADDITIONAL MIDWESTERN CO-OPS TO MAKE THE PROGRAM SUCCESSFUL. Power Moves is an embodiment of the Cooperation Among Cooperatives principle! Your co-op is one of 23 co-ops

ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS BENEFIT PARTICIPANTS’ POCKETBOOKS – AND THE ENVIRONMENT. At Power

The Power Moves program can provide you with the advice and energy efficiency rebates that can help you and all your fellow cooperative members save! To learn more about how the program can benefit your home or business, visit www.PowerMoves.com or call your local electric co-op and ask to speak to the energy advisor.

co-op news

Supporting our communities On Sept. 13, Jay County REMC and Whitewater Valley REMC participated in a Cooperative Community Day project to help the Randolph County Historical Society by painting, landscaping and moving furniture. We were very honored to be allowed to assist the society in the revitalization project. Jay County REMC will also be volunteering at Swiss Heritage Village on Oct. 11.

You can also help the society by voting on the Super Service Challenge website. Visit www. superservicechallenge.com to vote.

By voting, you will help the Randolph County Historical Society win funding for improvements at its museum. The Randolph County Historical Society is located at 416 S. Meridian St., Winchester.

Employees from Jay County REMC and Whitewater Valley REMC participated in a Cooperative Community Day project last month at the Randolph County Historical Society.

The voting process on the Super Service Challenge website has changed since last year. This year, you will be required to create a login to vote. Once the login is created, you can vote every day to help raise money for the organization.

Right: Jay County REMC employee Duane Monroe lifts a wheelbarrow during the Cooperative Community Day project last month.

Giveaway!

Enter to win a Family Fun Pack of four tickets to “A Merry Prairie Holiday� from Nov. 29 to Dec. 31, courtesy of Conner Prairie and Indiana Connection magazine.

Visit indianaconnection.org/talkto-us/contests to enter.

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career profile

Technology that drives our industry Top 3

responsibilities in a day: • Manage all IT-related operations for the cooperative.

• Oversee infrastructure for the tower, radio and metering • Manage vendors to keep projects on task, on time and on budget.

What’s a typical day like?

My “day-to-day” changes often, but I like to check in with all departments first thing in the morning to make sure everything is working or to see if there is anything I can help them with that day. I work with vendors daily on support issues and to order new hardware, software or services. I verify server backups and update all systems when necessary. I’m always answering phone calls and emails from employees and attend meetings throughout the week to coordinate with all departments.

What education and training was needed for this position?

I hold an associate degree in computer information technology and am finishing up my Bachelor of Science in information technology. It’s recommended the IT manager has at least a bachelor’s degree and 5-plus years of experience in IT management.

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OCTOBER 2019

Brandon Hall Manager of Information Technology Henry County REMC Have you had to master new skills to be successful in your position?

Absolutely. Much of what I do is industry specific, so I attend many conferences and trainings each year to keep up with the technology that drives our industry.

What part of your job do you find the most fulfilling?

We are always implementing new technologies. Knowing that my work will benefit not only my team, but the members we serve is gratifying to me.

What’s the most challenging part of your job?

We are currently a one-man IT shop. Finding the time throughout the day to complete tasks and projects is often challenging.

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

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