Carroll White REMC — July 2018 Electric Consumer

Carroll White REMC

YOUR INDIANA COOPERATIVE COMPANION

Golden

A

Age

Celebrating 50 years of Special Olympics

50 years of service Thompson retires from REMC

J ULY 2 0 1 8

from the editor

Songs of summer Summertime and the songs heard endlessly on the radio then go together like burgers on a barbecue grill. The right catchy melody can put you in a summer vacation mood even in the dead of winter.

For me, the early 1970s oldie “I Saw the Light” conjures up a lazy summer vibe — that carefree, sunshiny, kick-off-your-flip-flops-and-dig-your-feet-in-the-sand feeling. And, Rihanna’s “Umbrella,” which was constantly repeated on the radio in the sweltering summer of 2007, reminds me of singing along during a fun family car trip to the Outer Banks.

When thinking about the songs of summer, we typically only consider the tunes of our lifetimes. But several years ago, the Boston Globe charted the hot tunes from 100 of the past summers. The resulting list parallels music with historical events and the country’s mood at the time.

During the summer of 1918, the jazzy “Tiger Rag” was the cat’s meow, and when the Roaring Twenties were in full swing five years later, “The Charleston” was the quintessential tune. In 1956, Elvis’ “Hound Dog” was the rage. Ten years later, during the Vietnam War, “Ballad of the Green Berets,” a tribute to our “fighting soldiers” topped not only the charts but our hearts.

Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” and his iconic “Moonwalk” are synonymous with the summer of 1983. During this age of MTV music videos in 1990, Madonna’s “Vogue” (the song, the video and the dance moves) had us striking a pose.

It’s still a bit too early to name this year’s top summer jam. But it’s the perfect time to share your personal fave summertime song. Email me at ec@ElectricConsumer.org and tell me what summer song you relate to the most for a chance to win a $25 gift card to Starbucks.

VOLUME 68 • NUMBER 1 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by:

ELECTRIC CONSUMER is for and about members of Indiana’s locally-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives. It helps consumers: use electricity safely and efficiently; understand energy issues; connect with their co-op; and celebrate life in Indiana.

Over 272,000 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 ec@ElectricConsumer.org ElectricConsumer.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS Gary Gerlach President Walter Hunter Vice President Randy Kleaving Secretary/Treasurer Tom VanParis Chief Executive Officer EDITORIAL STAFF Emily Schilling Editor Richard George Biever Senior Editor Holly Huffman Member Relations/ Advertising Manager Ellie Schuler Senior Communications Specialist ADVERTISING Crosshair Media, 502-216-8537; crosshairmedia.net

EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@electricconsumer.org

On the menu: October issue — Pizza recipes: deadline July 16.

November — Quintessential Hoosier foods (like persimmon pudding, pork tenderloin, fried biscuits and sugar cream pie): deadline Aug. 13. If we publish your recipe on our food page, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Reader Submissions page: October — Photos of your

favorite carved pumpkins: deadline July 16. November — Photos of you and politicians/candidates for government offices: deadline Aug. 13.

Giveaway: You could win a $25 Starbucks gift card by sharing your favorite “Song of the

Summer” (see “From the Editor” column above). To enter, send us your contact information along with the name of your co-op. Put “July Giveaway” in the title. The deadline to enter is July 16. The winner of the overnight stay at French Lick Resorts from June is Sindy Seifers, Princeton, Indiana.

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

entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website ElectricConsumer.org; email ec@ElectricConsumer.org; or send to Electric Consumer, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606.

GLM Communications, Inc., 212-929-1300; glmcommunications.com Paid advertisements are not endorsements by any electric cooperative or this publication.

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $12 for individuals not subscribing through participating REMCs/RECs. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Readers who receive Electric Consumer through their electric co-op membership should report address changes to their local co-op.

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

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

Include key number.

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

JULY 2018

3

contents

JULY

14

17

product picks 03 FROM THE EDITOR 05 CO-OP NEWS Energy news and information from your electric co-op.

10 ENERGY 12 INSIGHTS 14 PRODUCT PICKS “Roughing it” ain’t what it used to be with these hightech gadgets.

19

food

16 INDIANA EATS Limestone Cafe in Bedford.

17 FOOD Summer picnic fare.

19 COVER STORY Special Olympics has been refining and redefining “gold” for 50 years. Here’s why.

26 EVENTS CALENDAR

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

cover story 28 DO-IT-YOURSELF Here are some simple things you can do to spruce up and add value to your home.

29 SAFETY When thunder roars, go indoors!

30 BACKYARD (not in all editions)

feature

31 PRODUCT RECALLS (not in all editions) 32 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS 34 FEATURE Indiana’s electric co-ops sent almost 250 students to the annual Touchstone Energy Camp and to Washington, D.C., on the annual Youth Tour in June.

On the Cover Ezekial Contreras of Vigo County crosses the finish line of the 50-meter dash at the 2017

Find us on Pinterest www.pinterest.com/Electriconsumer

Indiana Special Olympics summer games.

Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/ElectricConsumer

anniversary this month; and Special Olym-

Special Olympics celebrates its golden 50th pics Indiana celebrates its 50th next year.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SPECIAL OLYMPICS INDIANA

4

22

JULY 2018

co-op news

“This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.”

CARROLL WHITE REMC P.O. Box 599; Monticello, IN 47960 800-844-7161 (Toll Free) www.cwremc.coop MONTICELLO OFFICE 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday DELPHI OFFICE 7:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday EMAIL info@cwremc.coop CEO Randy W. Price BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kevin M. Bender, 574-686-2670 4280 W, 700 N, Delphi

Margaret E. Foutch, 219-279-2677 7535 W, 500 S, Chalmers

Gary E. Gerlach, 574-595-7820 9833 S. Base Road, Star City

Kent Zimpfer, 765-479-3006 4672 E. Arrow Point Court, Battle Ground

Tina L. Davis, 219-204-2195 7249 W, 600 S, Winamac

Marilyn S. O’Farrell, 574-965-2762 9724 N, 900 W, Delphi

Milton D. Rodgers, 765-566-3731 3755 S, 575 E, Bringhurst

Ralph H. Zarse, 219-863-6342 1535 S, 100 E, Reynolds

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Carroll White REMC is to provide members with superior energy and related services, meaningful contributions to their communities and a safe, productive environment for employees. “No job is complete until the member is satisfied.”

IMPORTANT DATES

Cycle 1 and 4 June bills are due July 5 and are subject to disconnect July 24 if unpaid.

Cycle 2 and 5 June bills are due July 20 and are subject to disconnect Aug. 8 if unpaid.

Meters are read using the Automated Meter Reading system. Cycle 1 and 4 meters will be read July 1. Cycle 2 and 5 meters will be read July 15.

Fridge efficiency Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in your refrigerator. Uncovered foods release moisture, causing the compressor to work harder.

— U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ carrollwhite.remc FOLLOW US ON TWITTER www.twitter.com/cwremc

Golden memories for Donna Thompson and CW REMC In 1968, Dr. Christian Barnard performed the first successful heart transplant.

McDonalds introduced the Big Mac, which cost a whopping, 49 cents.

Boeing 747 made its maiden flight, and emergency 911 telephone services started in the U.S. 1968 was a year of profound political and civil unrest. That year, Martin Luther King was assassinated, and presidential candidate Sen. Robert Kennedy was mortally wounded while campaigning.

The Poor Peoples March on Washington, D.C., took place then. Protesters of the Vietnam War created unrest in the U.S. The federal hourly minimum wage in 1968 was $1.60 an hour; the average income was $7,850. A new car’s average cost was $2,822, while the average home price was $14,950. Filling up your vehicle cost 34 cents per gallon.

1968 was a pivotal year in America on many fronts. And this was the year that Donna Thompson walked into White County REMC to begin a career that would span 50 years.

CEO Randy W. Price said he feels incredibly blessed to have spent his entire career with Thompson.

“Donna’s 50 years of experience gave her a wonderful perspective on our members and industry,” Price said.

“She has cared for those members who remember when the co-op brought electricity to their homes and businesses to today when a member is learning to use technology such as Smarthub with his or her first electric bill, and she shows them the importance of membership.”

Price said Thompson’s personal and professional growth has been at CW

REMC’s core of serving members.

“We could always count on Donna to give her best and to volunteer without thinking of herself,” Price said. “Our prayers are that Donna will continue to be as blessed in retirement as she was in her career.”

DONNA THOMPSON

The young woman who began that journey did not anticipate the changes she would experience. “It is amazing what I’ve witnessed,” Thompson said.

Thompson was born in Gary, and her father worked as a line superintendent for NIPSCO. She graduated from Twin Lakes High School in 1965. She went on to get an associate’s degree in secretarial science from Indiana State University in 1968.

Her REMC career began in billing. It now seems hard to imagine, but at that time, REMC members read their own meters.

“They read their meters and mailed the readings in,” Thompson said. “In the office, we would check to see if they were correct and mail them adjustments, if needed.

“Later, the REMC contracted meter readers, who keyed all readings by hand,” Thompson said. “In 1971, we hired Central Area Data Processing to manage billing and the meter readings.”

Thompson led that conversion. Today, CW REMC utilizes Automated Meter Readings (AMR).

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE JULY 2018

5

co-op news CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE Clearly, technology impacted many changes during Thompson’s career, and it continues to do so. Member connection has also dramatically changed in the last 50 years, Thompson said.

Early in her career, most members regularly came into the office to transact business. Member contact was faceto-face. Thompson said that today, CW REMC continues to make member contact a high priority. “With the today’s technology, REMC does all they can do to make it easier for our members to be connected and stay informed.”

Thompson’s career begin at the White County REMC building on North Main Street. It was the connections Thompson made in that office that she gives credit to giving her career success and longevity.

A humble person, Thompson named her mentors who were pillars of her career success: Geraldine Brewer, Lydia Parrish and Anita Carmichael. All three worked as cashiers and billing specialists. “They taught me what I needed to know about taking care of members,” Thompson said.

It was during this time, that Thompson’s knowledge in operations gained stride.

She credits Dean Horsewood, Lew Funk, Bill Ware and Charlie Snow in operations for teaching her the job skills she would later need when she moved into the operations department. “I listened to these operations employees talk to members and our linemen. That’s how I learned… by listening.”

Thompson recalled the devastation of the 1974 tornado. The Main Street office had no power, but employees were there.

“People came in the backdoor to let us know they lost their power as a result of the tornado,” she said.

She also recalled the 1991 ice storm that kept some members without power for up to three weeks.

Recalling the span of 50 years, Thompson said she treasures the early

6

JULY 2018

times and the joy in the job.

She talked about the times when she and Shirley Gallinger drove to the annual meeting, scheduled at North White in Monon. “We were so devoted to the co-op,” she said. “We would sing on the way, “Who turned on the lights in the country? REMC did!”

Thompson’s devotion to the co-op remained steadfast for 50 golden years.

When asked what she would like members to know, she said, “REMC always has the benefit of their members in mind. We work hard to provide efficient, economical electricity to our members. That is a constant.”

Thompson loves her Willie Wiredhand 50-year wooden sculpture. With his light socket head, wire body, and electrical plug for his bottom and legs, Willie is considered “an icon among many in the pantheon of corporate advertising characters.” To Thompson, he is a symbol of an industry that turned on the lights in the country.

What will she miss most about walking into REMC daily for work? “I will miss all the people — past and present,” she said.

Thompson and her husband of 41 years have three daughters — Lore, Brenda and Trisha. They also have seven grandchildren between the ages of 7 and 20.

In 2006, Thompson traveled to Scotland, the native home of her grandfather. She treasures that heritage and that memory.

She hopes they can travel more. On her wish list is Savannah, Charleston and, perhaps, a trip back to Scotland.

Consistent with one of the cooperative principles of giving back to the Community, Thompson is a volunteer and a member of Delta Theta Tau. She is also a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Monticello, where she is in the Presbyterian women’s group and helps with Vacation Bible School.

co-op news

line superintendents Meet your CW REMC Tim Bowley is the CW REMC line superintendent at the Delphi office, and Travis Curts holds that position in Monticello.

Both of these individuals began their cooperative careers as groundmen, advanced to the apprentice program, and then became journeyman linemen.

schedule, to locate where their next job is, and then to submit their time at the end of the day.

Many devices in the field are read and operated from the office. This, too, requires specialized training. The industry is trending to more technologically advanced systems, and we try to be as ready as possible for these changes.”

In January 2017, Bowley was promoted to line superintendent. “To me, this position is being the middle man between providing the members with reliable power and helping the lineman who build the lines to provide it,” Bowley said. “We meet with members to get a game plan together, and then we relay that information to the linemen to implement those plans.”

“Technology is used everywhere in rural electrification and is changing every day,” Curts added. “We have meters that self-read and provide valuable data that help us trouble shoot issues. We also use remote-operated switches and controls to help reduce outage times. As Bowley said, iPads are used for daily job tickets and maps of the systems, as well as outage tickets. Members can access their accounts through the SmartHub app on their phones to make payments, monitor use and even to report an outage.”

Curts began his career working for Carroll REMC, and in September 2017, he took the line superintendent position at the Monticello office.

“My responsibilities include meeting with members and contractors for new services and upgrades,” Curts said. “I supervise line crews, tree crews, storm dispatch and staking jobs.

Both Bowley and Curts stress the importance of technology in their positions.

“Technology is becoming more and more infused into the industry at many levels,” Bowley said. “Linemen use iPads to get their daily work

“I feel the biggest challenge of the job is ensuring that we are providing what our members expect from us in the safest manner possible,” Bowley said. “Many times, things that seem best on paper are not the best solutions in the real world, and communicating that to members and employees is not always popular or easy.”

Both line superintendents said they enjoy meeting with members. “I enjoy meeting with

TRAVIS CURTS

members out in the field to discuss options and/ or concerns they many have,” Bowley said.

“I would rather talk face-to-face with members,” Curts stated. “Having an opportunity to put a face to a name helps both of us to be clearer about what each of us wants or needs in a situation.”

Curts said CW REMC has a great group of employees in the operations department.

“Not only the crews out working on the lines, but the office personnel as well,” Curts said. “It takes many talented people to make things work safely and efficiently.”

“We are here to make things better for you and all of our members,” Bowley added. “We have a group of people that routinely go above and beyond to make things work for our members.”

Bowley is originally from Remington, graduating from Tri-County High School.

He has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Indiana Wesleyan University. He and his wife, Melissa, have three sons, four grandchildren and a dog.

Travis graduated from Delphi Community High School and lives in Delphi. He and his wife, Trisha, have two children.

TIM BOWLEY

JULY 2018

7

co-op news

CW REMC welcomes new linemen Drew Corsaletti and Dylan Hart joined

Southeast Linemen Training Center

CW REMC on the same day in March.

(SLTC) in Trenton, Georgia. SLTC is a

Both are groundmen and are in train-

premier training school for apprentice

ing to become linemen. Corsaletti

lineworker training. The center pro-

graduated from Amador High School

vides the highest standard of training

in Amador County, California. Hart

and curriculum in the industry.

graduated from Delphi Community High School.

During an intense 16-week program, SLTC graduates are well equipped to

DREW CORSALETTI

DYLAN HART

These men took different roads to em-

enter the electrical utility industry. In

bark on this REMC journey, but both

the course of this program, trainees

are dedicated to serving CW REMC

learn a variety of work skills and a

members.

commitment to safety. Hart’s training

to the West Coast has also presented

at SLTC was completed in December

adjustments, Corsaletti noted. Hart

2017.

said his biggest job challenge is learn-

Fort Hood, Texas. He is proud to have

In the tradition of linemen, Corsaletti

ing on the go.

served his country, but when he saw

and Hart love working outdoors.

Corsaletti is excited about the oppor-

online an opportunity to come to

Corsaletti’s “hobby” is working outside

tunities CW REMC will provide for his

Indiana and begin a new career, he

while Hart lists his hobbies as fishing

family. He and his wife, Sarah, have

felt compelled to move from the West

and hunting.

a five-month-old daughter, Emma.

While being relatively new on the

Hart said he appreciates the “family

Prior to joining REMC, Corsaletti was a medic in the United States Army in

Coast to the heartland. He’s never looked back. Corsaletti is looking forward to the training and educational opportunities offered by the REMC on his journey to becoming a lineman.

job and to the area, Corsaletti said his biggest challenge was getting his bearings…north, south, east and west.

atmosphere” at CW REMC. Both men are looking forward to long careers serving REMC members by providing

Being from the West Coast, that is

safe and efficient service.

A 2017 Delphi Community High

perfectly reasonable! Adjusting to dif-

Welcome, Drew and Dylan!

School graduate, Hart attended the

ferent weather patterns in comparison

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TAKE TIME TO UNDERSTAND YOUR ENERGY BILL

by Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen It’s always a good idea to understand how you’re spending your money. You look over your credit card statement carefully each month, so you should do the same with your utility bill. As you’d suspect, analyzing your bill can help you save energy and money.

If you live in an all-electric home, all of your home energy costs will be on the monthly bill from your electric cooperative. This bill will probably have one or more fixed charges that cover some of the costs your co-op incurs in delivering the power to your home.

Beyond these fixed fees, you will pay for the power you have used that month, which is sold in kilowatt-hour (kWh) units. Most electric coops charge the same rate for a kWh no matter when you use it, but some offer a “time-ofuse” (TOU ) rate that is higher during peak energy hours — when the wholesale price of electricity is higher because there’s greater demand. Some co-ops have different rates for different use tiers, so the rate could be higher or lower as monthly use increases. Electric rates can also vary by season and cost more during high-use months.

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JULY 2018

If you’re being charged more for energy use during “on-peak” hours, you can often adjust the time you use certain appliances and equipment, like your dishwasher, air conditioner, clothes washer or oven to “offpeak” hours. This won’t reduce your electric use, but it can save you money if your co-op offers a TOU rate.

idea of your space heating and cooling use.

Just total up your average electricity use for the months when you use the most energy and subtract the average amount you use in “shoulder months” — when you’re not cooling or heating your home. The difference is likely the amount you pay each month for heating and cooling.

Most energy bills include a chart that shows your electric use over the past 12 months. If your home is electrically heated, you will see how much your use goes up in the winter.

This chart can also show how much your use goes up during the summer when you’re running your air conditioner.

You may receive a separate monthly bill for natural gas, or for propane or heating oil which might be delivered on an as-needed, keep-filled basis. The Home Energy Yardstick can accommodate any type of fuel you use in your home.

Your electric co-op may also offer tools on its website to help you track energy use and estimate how much you use for space heating, air conditioning and water heating, which are often the three largest energy users. Knowing how much you spend on heating or cooling can help you determine how much you might save by installing a new heat pump or other energy-efficiency upgrades.

If you want a different perspective, you can try the ENERGY STAR® Home Energy Yardstick. This resource can give you a good

Hopefully this information can help you analyze your energy bill and give you some general ideas on how you might be able to cut your energy expenses. The best way to turn these ideas into specific actions is to conduct an energy audit of your home. Contact your electric co-op to see if they offer free energy audits or if they can recommend a local professional.

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

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insights

letters

TO THE EDITOR

Looking up!

BROADBAND ARTICLE INFORMATIVE Thank you for a very informative piece on rural broadband services offered by electric cooperatives.

We actually have an urgent need — being located in an area that is “just over the tracks” from reliable service.

Our business may be forced to relocate for this reason alone.

from Toby Bonar, Green Golf Partners, LLC

APPRECIATIVE OF APRIL COVER STORY ON RIDING RESEARCH CENTER YOUR INDIANA COOPERATIVE COMPANION

APRIL 2018

director of the Lakeland Center for Therapeutic Riding and Research featured in

T

here’s a trend developing in rural America, and it’s a positive one.

rising little from 2017, bankers expect little increase in farm loan defaults,” said Goss.

Creighton University’s Rural Mainstreet Index is above the growth-neutral mark of 50.0 for the fourth consecutive month. That hasn’t happened since July 2015.

The home-sales index climbed from 57.1 in April to 62.1 in May.

May’s reading of 56.3, up from 53.5 in April, is also the highest since July 2013.

As the founder and executive

Rural economy continues upswing

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“Surveys over the past several months indicate the Rural Mainstreet economy is trending upward with improving, and positive economic growth,” said Ernie Goss, a professor at Creighton’s Heider College of Business.

The community bankers in a 10-state region surveyed for the index were asked to project farm loan defaults over the next 12 months.

On average, they expect a rise of 3 percent, compared with the 5 percent increase expected this time in 2017.

“Clearly even with 2018 net farm income

Still, not everything is picture-perfect.

The farmland and ranchland-price index is now below growth-neutral for the 54th month in a row, falling to 42.2. And for the 57th consecutive month, the farm equipment-sales index is below growthneutral, though May’s 43.8 reading is a marked improvement from April’s 37.8.

The confidence index, reflecting expectations for the economy six months out, was unchanged at 50.0, indicating little economic optimism among bankers.

“An unresolved North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and rising trade tensions with China continue to be a concern,” said Goss.

SO URCE: NRECA

your April magazine, I just wanted to let you all know how appreciative

Senior editor wins publication awards

we are of the story. Richard Biever

Richard G. Biever, Electric Consumer

Story category for his October 2017

(the writer) went above and beyond

senior editor, won four awards in the Co-

article about Indiana craft breweries and

our expectations, was thorough,

operative Communicators Association’s

a third place in the same category for his

captured the essence of the work we

annual awards competition. The awards

November 2017 article about the Indiana

do, and wrote one of the best articles

were announced during the organiza-

Artisan group. He also received a third

we have ever had written.

tion’s annual institute held June 2-5 in

place in the Words and Pictures catego-

Fort Worth, Texas.

ry for the photo/article package about

We are so thankful to him and to Electric Consumer for the

Biever won a first place in the Editorial

Indiana Artisan.

category for his March 2017 commentary

CCA is an organization of communi-

“Making it big with the ‘Maxville Monthly’”

cators employed by various coopera-

from Christy Menke,

about unexpected careers with co-ops.

tives throughout the United States and

Coatesville, Indiana

He received a second place in the News

opportunity to share our work.

12

JULY 2018

Canada.

insights

CORRECTIONS • The Chicken House’s “Buy one, get one

The hope within our youth

half off” special

In December, the honor roll of philanthropic young people will reach 50 as Electric

noted in last

Consumer and Indiana’s electric cooperatives bestow Youth

month’s article

Power and Hope Awards on five community-minded students in

about Readers’

grades 5-8.

Choice Award winner for “Best Fried Chicken” was not accurate.

The chicken dinner special is valid only Mondays-Thursdays

Each winner will receive $500. Winners will be formally recognized at the Indiana Electric Cooperatives annual meeting in Indianapolis on Dec. 4. They will also be the

from 4-7:30 p.m. The special

featured in an Electric Consumer article.

is not available on Fridays and

Applicants do not have to live within an REMC/

Saturdays.

• The Electric Consumer’s new address, listed on Insights last month, also had an inaccuracy.

The publication’s new street and mailing address is: 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240.

REC territory. However, they must reside in Indiana. Deadline to apply is Oct. 5.

For more information and application forms, please visit our website: www.ElectricConsumer.org.

Youth Power & Hope winner Mekinley Elrod, who was one of the five selected in 2015, was a young “wonder woman” for fundraising.

JULY 2018

13

product picks

Happy campers

1

“Roughing it” ain’t what

4

it used to be. And unless you’re a Jeremiah Johnson mountainman-type — that’s a good thing. With these clever gadgets, you can venture into the great outdoors and still enjoy some of the creature comforts of home.

BY JAYNE CANNON

2

1

5 6

3

2

3

4

COOK & CHARGE

SLAP ZAPPY

JAM IN A JAR

BATTERY BACKUP

COOL BREEZE

IN HOT WATER

No need to rub sticks together to cook meals and charge your cell phone with the BioLite CampStove 2. It turns sticks and twigs into smokeless flames that can boil a liter of water in five minutes while also generating 5 volts of electricity to charge USB devices. $130.

844-824-6548; bioliteenergy.com

Mosquitoes can put a damper on woodsy fun. Keep pests at bay with the 2-in-1 Portable Zapper and Accent Light. The light attracts mosquitoes and kills them on contact. At only 4 inches wide, it’s nearly pocket-sized.

And it’s a handy camp light. $19.

800-466-3337; homedepot.com

When you tire of singing camp songs and telling ghost stories or just want to relax with your tunes, the Bluetooth Mason Jar Speaker will come in handy. It looks like a jelly jar, but it delivers wireless sound that will have you jamming by the campfire. $60.

888-365-0056; uncommongoods.com

If your gung-ho camping compadres cower at the thought of a dead phone battery, tuck the Crave Travel Pro Power Bank into your backpack.

Compact and quickcharging, it will help keep them connected, no matter where you go. From $33.

888-280-4331; amazon.com

Tent living is twice as nice with the Coleman CPX 6 Lighted Tent Fan. Powered by an included rechargeable cartridge (or four D-cell batteries), it directs a quiet, cooling airflow and 99 lumens of light where you want them for up to 30 hours per charge. $40.

800-835-3278; coleman.com

Loving the wild doesn’t mean you have to live like an animal.

Enjoy a hot shower with the BaseCamp BOSS-XB13. Six D-cell batteries, a water source and a 1-pound propane tank gives you 30 minutes of hot water on-demand. $199.

14

JULY 2018

5

6

800-251-0001; mrheater.com/ sporting

ADVERTISEMENT

New Pill Targets Weak Bladder Muscles, Preventing Accidents and Leaks Developed for 24-hour bladder control; participants in clinical trial experience dramatic reduction in trips to the bathroom, embarrassing leaking, and nighttime urgency without the usual negative side effects of drugs.

Robert Ward, Associated Health Press AHP− Adult diaper sales are expected to plummet as results from a clinical trial on a new, patented bladder control pill have finally been released.

Sold under the brand name UriVarx™, the new pill contains key ingredients that keeps the bladder from releasing voluntarily, which reduces accidents and frequent bathroom trips.

Perhaps more impressive, it also targets the tiny muscles around the bladder, which helps the bladder to create a tighter seal.

This would explain why the average UriVarx™ user in clinical trials experiences a 66% reduction in urinary incontinence symptoms, such as day and night leaking and sudden urges to urinate.

NEW DISCOVERY IN BLADDER CONTROL Until now, doctors believed it was impossible to strengthen the muscles that control the bladder. They are amazed to see that it can now be done with the non-prescription UriVarx™ pill.

“As you get older, and the involuntary muscles around your bladder weaken, you lose urinary control. With your bladder wall unable to properly seal, you constantly leak and feel pressure to urinate” explains Dr. Bassam Damaj of Innovus Pharmaceuticals.

“UriVarx™ targets the bladder muscles and help restores vital kidney health, reducing urgency and frequency. It also helps you “hold it” for hours so you never have to worry about embarrassing accidents ever again!”

FREEDOM FROM SUDDEN URGES AND LEAKS Since hitting the market, sales for the patented UriVarx™ pill have soared and there are some very good reasons why.

To begin with, the double blind large clinical studies published in the clinicaltrials.gov have been impressive. Participants taking UriVarx™ saw a stunning reduction in urinary frequency, which resulted in fewer bathroom trips both day and night.

They also experienced a dramatic decrease in incontinence episodes, such as leaking and bed wetting.

The active ingredients in UriVarx™ comes from a patented formula. It is both safe and healthy. There are also no known serious side effects in its history of use.

Scientists believe that the ingredients target the muscles of the bladder to grow stronger. These muscles are responsible for keeping the bladder tightly sealed. They also help the bladder to

completely empty, allowing bacteria to be flushed from the urinary tract.

Research has shown that as you get older, certain hormonal changes in the body cause these muscles to shrink and become lose. This is what causes the bladder to be over active and the resulting urine accidents and why UriVarx™ seems to be so effective in the published clinical trials.

EXCITING RESULTS FROM URIVARX USERS Many UriVarx™ users say their bladders have never been stronger. For the first time in years, they are confident and in complete control. Adult pads and diapers are no longer a big worry.

“After my third child, I couldn’t control my bladder. I was running to the bathroom all the time!

And once I hit my 60s it became so unpredictable I needed to wear adult pads every day” explained Marie L. of Danbury, CT. “I was embarrassed so before going to my doctor I decided to try UriVarx and I’m so glad I did! The urgency is gone and I no longer feel like my bladder is about to explode. I can also “hold it” when I need to so I’m no longer living in constant fear of finding a bathroom.”

IMPRESSIVE CLINICAL RESULTS The exciting clinical results published on the government clinical website clinicaltrials.gov show that UriVarx™ can strengthen your bladder fast, significantly reducing the urine urgency and leaks.

In a new double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 142 men and women with bladder control issues were separated into two groups. The first group was given a placebo while the other received UriVarx™.

The results were incredible. The participants who received UriVarx™ saw major improvements in leaking, pressure, and the urgency to go − all without the usual side effects seen in prescription drugs!

They also reported fewer trips to the bathroom both day and night.

Overall, the UriVarx™ group experienced: • 56% Reduction in Urge Incontinence • 66% Reduction in Stress Incontinence • 61% Reduction in Urgency • 33% Reduction in Frequency • 46% Reduction in Nighttime Bathroom Trips Additionally, at the end of clinical trial and after seeing the results, 84% of the participants taking UriVarx™ said it significantly improved their quality of life.

“The clinical findings are incredible, but people still wonder if it will really work” explains Dr. Bassam Damaj. “It’s normal to be skeptical, but we’ve seen thousands of UriVarx™ users get results

Urivarx: This new patented, clinically proven pill solution is now available nationwide exactly like the participants in the study. It’s an amazing product.”

HOW IT WORKS UriVarx™ is a pill that’s taken just once daily. It does not require a prescription.

The active ingredients are patented natural extracts.

Research shows that as we get older, the muscles which surround the bladder weaken. This is caused by hormonal changes in the body that causes the muscles to atrophy and weaken.

When they become too small and weak, they cannot seal your bladder shut, which causes leaking, accidents, among other incontinence symptoms.

It also prevents your bladder from fully emptying, which can result in persistent bacterial infections and UTIs. UriVarx™’s active ingredient targets the muscles around the bladder, making them stronger.

Supporting ingredients in UriVarx™ support kidney function and overall urinary health.

BLADDER PROBLEMS GONE With daily use, UriVarx™ can restore strong bladder control and help users overcome leakage without the negative side effects or interactions associated with drugs.

Leakage sufferers can now put an end to the uncontrollable urges, the embarrassing accidents, and enjoy an entirely new level of comfort and confidence.

HOW TO GET URIVARX™ This is the first official public release of UriVarx™.

In order to get the word out about UriVarx™ the manufacturer, Innovus Pharmaceuticals, is offering special introductory discounts while supplies last.

A special phone hotline has been set up to take advantage of deep discounts during this ordering opportunity. The discounts will automatically be applied to all callers.

Your Toll-Free Hotline number is 1-800-506-8220 and will only be open while supplies last. Don’t miss out, call today.

THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FDA. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. RESULTS MAY VARY. OFFER NOT AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS OF IOWA.

Indiana eats

Culinary treasure CAFE OFFERS BOTH ATMOSPHERE AND GREAT FOOD Bedford is in the heart of Southern Indiana’s world famous limestone country. And the aptly named Limestone Cafe, a culinary treasure that garners consistent high marks from its diners, is in the heart of downtown Bedford.

The homey eatery, open only for breakfast and lunch, is not just acclaimed for its tasty food; patrons like State Rep. Chris May of Bedford rave about the friendly service, the fun vibe and the live music. “I love the atmosphere,” May said. “It is quaint and casual and it offers local acoustic music. They really pay attention to detail!”

May’s meal of choice when he visits Limestone Cafe is a favorite of many: a plate of Italian Nachos. This unique spin on a South of the Border classic features Italian sausage, creamy asiago cheese sauce, chopped ripe olives, diced tomatoes, green onions, sweet pepper rings and mozzarella cheese atop tortilla chips.

Flatbread pizzas (with toppings of your choice) are another Limestone Cafe specialty.

Full meals like Orange Maple Glazed Salmon Filet and Barbecue Grilled Pork Chops prove you can have a wonderful meal out at affordable prices. Homemade desserts like Hummingbird Cake are always in demand.

Limestone Cafe offers weekly specials. Visit its Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ thelimestonebedford) for tempting photos and descriptions of new menu selections to pick from. You’ll also be able to learn all about special events going on.

Limestone Cafe 1015 16th St.

Bedford, Indiana

812-279-0499 Hours

Tue.-Fri.: 9 am-3 pm Sat.: 9 am-2 pm Find out more at:

16

facebook.com/thelimestonebedford JULY 2018

ABOUT STATE REP. CHRIS MAY: Indiana State Rep. Chris May represents House District 65, which includes portions of Brown, Jackson, Johnson, Monroe and Lawrence counties.

He serves on the Local Government, Judiciary and Interstate/ International Cooperation committees.

food

r e m Sum Picnics

Sauerkraut Hot Dish

by Kevin Cox, Washington 1½ lbs. pork steak, cubed 1 medium chopped onion 2 celery ribs, chopped 1 (16-oz.) can Sauerkraut, undrained 8 oz. noodles, cooked and drained 1 (10-oz.) can condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted 1 (4-oz.) can mushrooms, drained Salt and pepper to taste In a large skillet, brown meat. Add the onion and celery. Cook until onion is transparent.

Stir in sauerkraut, noodles, soup and mushrooms. Cook until meat is tender on low heat or pour in greased 2-quart casserole dish. Cover and bake for 1½ hours at 350 F, stirring occasionally. Yields 8 servings.

Hasty Tasty Apple Pie

by Patricia Piekarski, Harvey, Illinois ⅔ cup flour 1 (7.2-oz.) package any flavor frosting mix ⅓ cup butter or margarine 1 package pie crust mix 8 apples In a bowl, combine flour and 1½ cups frosting mix. Cut in butter. Set aside.

Prepare pie crust for double crust as directed.

Roll out to fit a 10-inch pie pan.

Peel and shred apples to make 4 to 5 cups.

Spread 1 cup over bottom of crust. Cover with ½ cup dry frosting mix. Spread 1⅓ cups of apples for second layer. Cover with remaining frosting mix. Spread remaining apples to make a third layer. Sprinkle flour/ frosting mixture over top. Bake at 425 F for 10 minutes. Reduce oven to 350 F and bake for 35 minutes.

JULY 2018

17

food FO O D PREPARED BY ELECTR I C CO NS UME R S TA FF PHO TO S BY RI CHA RD G . B I E V E R

Chocolate Sheet Picnic Cake

by Ruth Ann King, Warsaw CAKE 1 cup water 2 sticks butter ½ cup cocoa 2 cups sugar 1¾ cups flour 1 t. baking soda ½ t. salt 3 eggs ¾ cup sour cream In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter and cocoa. Cook over medium heat, stirring until mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute.

Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, stir together sugar, flour, baking soda and salt. Add eggs and sour cream.

Daring Dip

Hummus

by Jane Johnson, Elizabethtown

by Cheri Bearman, Hoagland

jellyroll pan. Bake at 350 F for 25 to

1 (15-oz.) can black beans, rinsed

1 (16-oz.) can garbanzo beans

30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted

and drained

4 T. lemon juice

in middle comes out clean.

2 T. lemon juice

1½ T. tahini

PEANUT BUTTER CHIP FROSTING

1 t. sea salt

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt

2 T. olive oil

⅓ cup butter

¼ t. ground cumin

½ t. salt

beat until blended. Add cocoa mixture and beat until just blended. Pour this thin batter into a greased and floured

⅓ cup milk

1 t. powdered garlic

10 oz. peanut butter chips

1 dash hot sauce, optional

1 t. vanilla 1 cup powdered sugar

garbanzo bean can and save for Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth. Store in refrigerator

In a medium saucepan, combine

up to 24 hours before serving.

butter, milk and chips. Cook over low

Serve with raw vegetables.

heat, stirring until mixture is smooth.

Stir in vanilla. In a small mixer bowl, place powdered sugar and gradually add chip mixture, beating until well blended. Frost cake.

18

JULY 2018

Drain off ½ cup of the liquid from later.

Mix all ingredients in blender until “dip” consistency. Add extra liquid, if needed. Enjoy with crudités (celery sticks, carrot sticks, cucumber sticks, bell pepper strips, broccoli, cauliflower, fennel and/or asparagus spears).

n e d l o G A e g A

cover story

Special Olympics celebrates 50 years finding, refining and re-defining the meaning of ‘gold’

BY RIC HA RD G . BIE VE R

Y

ou can hardly call yourself a “Hoosier” if you’ve not heard of the “Milan Miracle” — the David and Goliath tale of the tiny Indiana high school that won the 1954 state basketball championship and

inspired the movie “Hoosiers.”

But there’s another Milan miracle. It’s about another David.

And it’s just as amazing.

It’s the story of David Paul, a 2014 Milan High School graduate.

Born four months premature, David seemingly was not long for the world. His doctors gave him less than a 10 percent chance of survival.

They diagnosed a myriad of maladies affecting his brain and other organs caused by the prematurity. His birth weight was less than 2 pounds.

In the vernacular used by his grocer dad: David in the fetal position would have fit inside a 2-liter bottle of soda. “If you were to pick up a 20-ounce loaf a bread, that would have been his body weight,” said David’s dad, Tim Paul, who works for his brother at the IGA in Oldenburg. “David’s footprint would have fit inside a quarter.”

Today, David’s footprint is figuratively Goliath sized. Due to his dad’s diligence in developing and coaching him, and Special Olympics for providing the platform and opportunity, David is able to stand tall on his

after David won two Tim and David Paul share a smile etition. Born four comp g rliftin gold medals in a powe less than 2 pounds, months premature and weighing challenges — with David has overcome immeasurable way. e entir the side his by his dad Tim PAUL PHOTO COUR TESY OF TIM

INDIA NA TESY OF SPECI AL OLYM PICS BACK GROU ND PHOTO COUR

own as a 22-year-old gold medal-winning powerlifter. Despite having cerebral palsy and a malformed femur and being told he’d never walk, the Southeastern Indiana REMC consumer will be representing Indiana in the Special Olympics USA Games this month in Seattle.

PLEASE TURN TO THE NEXT PAGE JULY 2018

19

Tim Paul reaches his hand into his son’s incubator at Good Samaritan Hospital in Cincinnati to touch his tiny son, David.

David was born four months premature, and was fighting for his life (inset photo).

That was 22 years ago. Today, David, though dealing with intellectual and physical challenges from his premature start in life, is a Special Olympics powerlifter able to dead lift and bench press well over 200 pounds.

With his dad along as a coach and biggest fan, David will be representing Indiana in this month’s Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle. David (photo at right) competes in the dead lift component at the Indiana games last month at Indiana State University in Terre Haute.

PAUL PHOTO COUR TESY OF TIM

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE David’s story of never giving up and working to overcome the health challenges hurled his way exemplifies what Special Olympics is all about.

As a powerlifter, David has bench-pressed 235 pounds.

He has dead-lifted 254 pounds — which requires raising the barbell from the floor and standing erect with knees locked and back straight. And he has back-squatted 133 pounds — which requires the lifter to put the bar on his back, step into a set position, then drop down into a full squat and come back up.

This means the once 20-ounce preemie, who is also legally blind and has an intellectual disability, is now able to lift over 150 to 180 times his birth weight in two events. That would be pounds at birth now lifting over 1,000 pounds.

“Everybody talks about that Milan basketball team,” said his proud dad and coach. “But I say I’ve got a miracle that’s just as big and inspirational as there ever has been in Milan.”

Miracles among us

PHO TO BY RI CHARD G . BI EVER

“

like a 22-year-old weighing in at the average 7.5

if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.

out there because of Special Olympics?

For a half century, Special Olympics has been striking down the old derogatory terms of the past and redefining what it means to be “intellectually disabled” for millions of people barriers of stereotypes and prejudice. It has helped find and refine the gold shining within

a transformative power to change people’s

Let me win, but

How many other miracles like David Paul are

around the globe. It has helped them leap the

“Whether it’s high school, college, youth league stuff or Special Olympics, sports has

”

Olympics uses that platform … to be able to talk to people about the value of somebody with a disability.”

Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy has grown to more than 5.7 million athletes and Unified partners in 172 countries. In the United States, over 700,000 athletes and Unified partners from 52 state programs participate in sports offered at the national, regional, state, local and area levels.

In Indiana, almost 15,000 athletes

these individuals society once cast aside into Special Olympics marks its golden anniversary this month

CEO of Special Olympics Indiana. “Special

Shriver, the Special Olympics movement

­S PECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETE OATH

the shadows.

attitudes,” said Jeff Mohler, president and

participate in 29 sports from 71 county programs.

“The concept of Special Olympics started as a day camp

with a celebration in Chicago where the first Special Olympics

in [Shriver’s] backyard, but the very first event that ever was

games were held July 20, 1968 (please see sidebar on page 21).

labeled a ‘Special Olympics’ was a ‘world games,’” Mohler noted.

The global organization provides year-round athletic training and competition in a full range of sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Its goals are to transform their

“It started from the top and trickled down. And then the fire caught on.”

Indiana was quick off the mark reacting to the Special

lives through the power and joy of sports and empower them to

Olympics movement. Several educators from Indiana State

become accepted and valued members of their communities.

University attended the first Chicago games and carried the

20

JULY 2018

torch home to Terre Haute. They immediately developed a statewide Special Olympics organization. Indiana’s first games were held less than a year later, June 6, 1969, with a few

Eunice Kennedy Shriver looks over the first International Special Olympics Summer Games at Chicago’s Soldier Field, July 20, 1968.

dozen participants making them one of the — if not the — first statewide Special Olympics games.

As soon as the international 50th anniversary ends later this month with a special celebration in Chicago, Special Olympics Indiana will begin its 50th anniversary celebration which will last through 2019.

Indiana sets the pace

Special Olympics ... a Kennedy legacy

Special Olympics basketball program with over 250 teams and

T

is the only Special Olympics program that has a women’s-only

mistreatment of their intellectually disabled sister,

basketball tournament. Indiana also created a flag football

Rosemary. She saw how people with intellectual

Along with its quick start, Special Olympics Indiana has innovated and created many new programs to further the progress and welfare of those it serves.

As one might expect, Indiana offers the world’s largest

program that has been adopted by about every state.

A few of the many other marquee programs include: • Champions Together — a collaboration between the Indiana High School Athletic Association and Special Olympics Indiana that promotes servant leadership. Among the first programs of its kind in the U.S., Champions Together has grown from 13 Hoosier schools at its inception to 85 at the end of 2017.

• Athlete Leadership — which provides training and support for Special Olympians who want to expand their role both on and off the field as coaches, board members and more. “Too

he Special Olympics movement was founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver. A sister of President John F. Kennedy and Sen. Robert

F. Kennedy, Shriver saw firsthand the struggles and

disabilities were excluded from society and routinely removed to custodial institutions, and she decided to focus much of her life on making their lives better.

Shriver, a collegiate athlete, knew that sports could be a common ground to unite people from all walks of life. And what became Special Olympics began as a day camp for people with intellectual disabilities at her Maryland farm in 1962.

The first International Special Olympics Games,

often, I think, our athletes are waiting for us to invite them to

organized as a joint venture between the Kennedy

the board table,” Mohler said. “They need to invite us. It’s their

Foundation and the Chicago Park District, were held

table. And that’s a matter of our athletes continuing to learn

at Soldier Field, July 20, 1968. Nearly 1,000 athletes,

how to be leaders in the movement.”

including 80 from Indiana, marched into a nearly empty

• Unified Sports — which teams Special Olympians with peo-

stadium. By the close of the games, though, Chicago

ple without intellectual disabilities for training and competi-

Mayor Richard Daly leaned to Shriver and said, “The

tion in various sports.

• Healthy Athletes — which offers health services, screenings and information to address the severe health disparities faced by people with intellectual disabilities.

“Special Olympics today is very different than Special

world will never be the same.”

Shriver maintained close ties to Special Olympics during the next 40 years. She died in 2009 at age 88.

1968: TRIUMPH AMID TRAGEDY

Olympics was 50 years,” Mohler said. “But, thank God, we’ve

Less than two months before the first Special Olympics

changed because the needs of the people we serve have changed.

games in Chicago in July 1968, Shriver’s brother Sen.

Because people are giving them the opportunity to expand what they can do, their ability changes and grows. And so should our organization. We should continue to grow with those needs.”

Talking about new corporate partnerships in the health profession, Mohler told those attending a reception before the opening of the Indiana summer game last month in Terre Haute, “Our number one concern is the health and fitness of our athletes. It’s not just about programs. It’s about the people.”

To encourage participation in free health screenings at the summer games in June, another corporate partner,

Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated in Los Angeles. He was shot just moments after making his victory speech upon winning the California Democratic presidential primary. His last words to the crowd that night: “And now it’s on to Chicago, and let’s win there.”

“On to Chicago” referenced the Democratic National Convention to be held there in August 1968. With his death, the words bittersweetly instead prophesied his sister’s Special Olympics movement — which won over hearts and minds, and changed the world for so many.

PLEASE TURN TO THE NEXT PAGE JULY 2018

21

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE Indianapolis-based Finish Line, provided a free pair of properlyfitted athletic shoes and socks for each athlete completing at least three of the six offered screenings.

“We’re more than sports. We’re about human rights. In a large number of places around the world, including the U.S., human rights includes healthcare and access to it. And there’s a disparity in [our athletes’] access to healthcare. That’s not a political statement in any way. I think anybody, red or blue, would agree we just need to continue to help our athletes find ways to see the doctor.”

Mohler said beyond developing the special programs within Special Olympics, an ongoing goal is to simply become “statewide” in its reach. “We’re in 71 counties. One of the things we need to do is change that number. We need to be able to say that we have a program in each of the 92 Indiana counties.

“It’s just a matter of finding the right people to make it happen. Sometimes it’s just a matter of getting the word out to those very rural areas,” he said. “There are places in the state where you’re trying to start a program which may only reach 30, 40 people,” he added. “But that’s 30, 40 people that really could benefit from the programs and what we have to offer.”

Volunteers and ‘family’

PHO TO BY RI CHARD G . BI EVER

Jay Burns, an employee at a Finish Line store in Bloomington, helps Alyssa Reindorf, a volleyball player with the Ripley-Ohio-Dearborn County team, get the right fit in a new pair of shoes at the state Special Olympics games in Terre Haute in June. Athletes who participated in free health screenings during the games earned a pair of shoes donated by Finish Line.

“One of the things that I love most about Special Olympics

When Jay County Special Olympics was looking for a volunteer

is the faces of the athletes,” Denney said. “Even when they

who didn’t need much athleticism or training, Linda Hurst at the

compete, there’s joy. It doesn’t matter if they win or lose, they’re

Jay/Randolph Developmental Services turned to someone she

out there with friends, and they’re having a great time, and it

knew could perfectly fill the bill: her sister Cindy Denney, the

shows on their faces. We have some athletes whose verbal skills

jovial and exuberant director of marketing at Jay County REMC.

are virtually nothing, but their smiles speak volumes,” she said.

“They wanted someone to be a ‘hugger,’” recalled Denney.

Unlike many volunteers who become involved in Special

“A hugger was a person who was at the finish line. And when

Olympics because they have intellectually disabled family

athletes crossed the finish line, the hugger gave them a hug and

members or friends, Denney didn’t have a personal connection

congratulated them. That’s how I got started — as a hugger. I

to Special Olympics — at least before she started as a hugger.

think I’m a great hugger.”

Now, every Special Olympian she meets is a friend and family

Thirty-eight years later, Denney is still dishing out and receiving hugs at Special Olympics. And, she does so much more — as one of the almost 10,000 volunteers across Indiana who make the local programs go.

“A lot of our volunteers are involved all the time.

They’re putting in as many as 20 hours a week,” said Nathan Barnes, manager of grants and communication at the state

— which is how she describes her entire Special Olympics experience: “We are more than a team; we are family.”

Denney gets choked up easily talking about the Special Olympians she has come to know, coach and love. “I admire Special Olympic athletes because some of the things they have overcome to participate just floor me.

“They are my favorite athletes in the entire world,” she

organization. “We have what we call ‘county management

added. “To me, they are the Michael Jordans and the Lebron

teams.’ That’s where Special Olympics is administered at the

Jameses. They are ‘The Incredibles.’”

lower levels. The people who run those teams are all volunteers.”

Denney currently serves as treasurer for the Jay County

A long road … but not a lonely road

team, and is a “glorified go-fer” heading to Seattle with Team

David Paul first came to Special Olympics through its equestri-

Indiana. But over the years, she’s coached a variety of sports

an events. He had started therapeutic horseback riding, and his

(including some she had to look up in the library), has teamed

mom, Cheryl Vogelsang, took him to the state equestrian games

up in Unified events, and has gotten her family involved as well.

as an 11 year old 11 years ago. “His very first event, he got a gold

Allowing employees to take active roles as volunteers is one

medal. And we were hooked with Special Olympics,” Tim said.

way local REMCs support Special Olympics. Many have also made

Tim then entered David in bowling and coached him.

donations to local teams through Operation Round Up grants and

David had such trouble walking around the campus for his first

participated in fundraising efforts.

summer games, Tim recalled, he pushed him in a wheelchair.

22

JULY 2018

After finding out they had just won a silver medal in Unified Doubles at the 2017 Special Olympics National Bowling Tournament in Las Vegas, Special Olympian Sam Glessner hugs his doubles partner Cindy Denney. (Unified events team a Special Olympian with a parent or a volunteer.) Thirty-eight years ago, Denney, director of marketing at Jay County REMC, started volunteering with Special Olympics as a “hugger” at the finish line of races.

She’s been volunteering as a coach, serving as a treasurer and fundraiser and anything else ever since ... and still is giving and receiving hugs.

P HO TO P ROV ID E D B Y J AY C OU N T Y S P E C IA L OLY MP IC S

Then, with an OK from David’s doctor, Tim began working with David on stretching and weightlifting. That regimen has

Special Olympics at a GLANCE

Based in Indianapolis, Special

1

Olympics Indiana coordinates all aspects of the program in the state. In addition to conducting a

4

schedule of annual competition

6

events throughout the year, the

8

state office manages fundraising, public relations, coaches’

7

training, volunteer registration,

general administration.

9

2

the 10 area and 71 county programs, outreach and

3

5

10

PARTICIPATION To be eligible to compete in Special Olympics, an individual must be 8 years of age or older AND have

made all the difference in David’s physical abilities. For the past

been identified by an agency or professional as having

five years, he’s been competing and excelling in powerlifting.

an intellectual disability or closely related developmental

“It doesn’t come over night. It’s been a long road. A lot of hours,” Tim said, reflecting on the strides his son has made.

“There are times you just think, ‘Should I keep pushing? Should I give him a break?’ But then I see the results and where he’s

disability. For those under age 8, the Unified Champion Schools program is available.

SUPPORT

at today. He’s working on his own now. He’s going to the USA

Special Olympics Indiana is a nonprofit organization and

games. He’s got friends on Facebook.”

receives no federal or state funds, and relies entirely on

One of his Facebook friends is a weightlifter from Tennessee, a college student with cerebral palsy. While this young man has no intellectual disability, he has almost no use of his legs. “His strength was all upper body,” Tim said. “Now, he’s seen David lifting with cerebral palsy, and he said, ‘Man, if he can do that, I can do that.’ And now, he is beginning to.”

The Milan miracle story of David Paul is every bit as much a story of a father’s love, dedication and advocacy for his son. It’s also a story of how Special Olympics has been there for 50 years to provide inspiration, a sense of purpose, and an unwavering international family of support for individuals much of society once brushed aside.

“Special Olympics is a wonderful organization. We just needed a platform to touch other lives. That’s our goal,” said Tim. “I know how hard it is when someone tells you your kid has cerebral palsy. I want those other families to see what David’s done. He was in that same boat that they are now in. We just say, ‘Hey, there is hope.’”

Tim said there are days he wonders where David would be if

corporate, civic and individual donations.

EVENTS THIS MONTH • 2018 Special Olympics USA Games will be held in Seattle, July 1-6. Some 3,500 athletes from across the United States will compete in 14 sports. Team Indiana will consist of 78 members (40 athletes, 14 Unified partners, 15 coaches and nine support staff).

• Special Olympics 50th Anniversary Celebration will be held in Chicago, July 17-21, at various venues.

Five decades after the spark that became today’s Special Olympics movement was ignited at the first 1968 International Summer Games in Chicago, a year-long global anniversary celebration begins. Most events are free. For a schedule and information, visit: https://www.specialolympics.org/50th.aspx.

TO LEARN MORE OR MAKE A DONATION Contact Special Olympics Indiana at: 317-328-2000 or

not for Special Olympics. “As a dad, I would’ve worked with him

800-742-0612; or visit its website: SOIndiana.org.

as best I could, but I don’t think we’d be where we’re at today.”

To learn more about Special Olympics in general,

RICHARD G. BIEVER is senior editor of Electric Consumer. For a longer version of this story along with more details about David Paul’s personal journey, please visit our website.

please visit SpecialOlympics.org.

JULY 2018

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calendar NORTHWEST

4-8

CEDAR LAKE SUMMERFEST, Cedar Lake (Lake), Town Complex.

Live entertainment, fireworks, rides, carnival games, food, crafts and more. Free. Hours vary by day. 219-794-4122. cedarlakesummerfest. com

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FOUNTAIN PARK CHAUTAUQUA, Remington (Jasper), Fountain Park. Daily activities, two programs per day, art and quilting classes, children’s activities. Rustic hotel and camping area available. Event runs through Aug. 5. fountain-park.org

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BROADWAY ART & CRAFT FAIR, Monticello (White), Monticello Library. Local artists exhibit art for the public to purchase. Free. Hours vary by day. adult@monticello.lib. in.us. 574-583-2665, ext. 3307. monticello.lib.in.us

CENTRAL

3-4

CARMELFEST, Carmel (Hamilton), Civic Square. Patriotic parade, fireworks, entertainment, festival food and shopping marketplace. Free. carmelfest.net

2022

37TH ANNUAL ANTIQUE POWER EXHIBITION, Boswell (Warren), Pike Creek Valley. View engines, tractors and machinery; parades; entertainment; tractor games; and kiddie pedal trator parade. $5 gate fee. Fri-Sat: 8 am-6 pm. Sun: 8 am-3 pm. illianaantiquepower.com

29

SULLIVAN ARROWHEAD SHOW, Sullivan (Sullivan), Sullivan County 4-H Building.

See arrowheads and other artifacts. Free. 8 am-2:30 pm.

812-665-3772, after 6 pm.

SOUTHWEST

3

FIREWORKS & EVENING IN THE PARK, Newburgh (Warrick), Old Lock and Dam Park. Independence Day celebration complete with games, food, community concert and fireworks. Free. Begins at 5 pm. 812-853-2815. historicnewburgh.org

7

ABRAHAM LINCOLN FREEDOM FESTIVAL, Rockport (Spencer), Rockport City Park. Food, music and large fireworks display. Festival begins at noon CST and concludes with the fireworks show at dark. Free. 812-6499147. IndianasAbeLincoln. org/events

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JULY 2018

21

RED SKELTON FESTIVAL, Vincennes (Knox), Red Skelton Museum.

Entertainment, clowns, fun and food.

Evening performance features a Red Skelton impersonator. Free.

800-886-6443. visitvincennes. org

JULY NORTHEAST

6-7

ANGOLA BALLOONS ALOFT, Angola (Steuben), Angola High School.

Some of the finest hot air balloon pilots compete for prizes. Kids zone, classic car show, petting zoo, twilight illuminations. Free. 7 am-10:30 pm. 800-525-3101. angolaballoonsaloft.com

1214

ALOHA STEEL GUITAR CONVENTION, Winchester (Randolph), Towne Square Community Centre. Enjoy the beauty of the Steel Guitar sound and atmosphere. Special guest from Hawaii and floor show Saturday night. 574-3823985. roamrandolph.com

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ZANESVILLE LIONS CLUB SUMMER FESTIVAL, Zanesville (Allen), Various locations.

Car show, food, garage sales, horse and wagon rides, and more! 260-638-4327. For updates, go to facebook.com/ zanesvillehomespunday/

SOUTHEAST

7 14 PHOTO CREDIT: HAMILTON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

CORYDON CAPITAL DAY, Corydon (Harrison), Downtown Square.

Demonstrations, food, old-fashioned fun. Free. 888-738-2137. thisisindiana.org

WHEELS FOR THE MILL, Salem (Washington), Historic Beck’s Mill. Car show with voting, classic vehicles, music, and food. 11 am-3 pm. Mill entry fee for adults older than 16 ($5). No charge to view classic vehicles.

812-883-5147. Entry fee for car show. becksmill1864@outlook. com. becksmill.org

2021

OLDENBURG FREUDENFEST, Oldenburg (Franklin), Town Hall. German festival with food, beer garden, games, German music, 10k walk, 7- or 20-mile bike ride, good family fun. Hours vary. Free. 866-6476555. freudenfest.com

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

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

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

JULY 2018

27

do-it-yourself

Sprucing Up DIY SOLUTIONS CAN ADD VALUE TO YOUR HOME

BY JO HN O BE R ME IER If you’re planning to sell your home, you may be looking for ways to increase its value. At closing time you don’t want to leave money on the table because you didn’t make simple repairs, resolve clutter issues, or update fixtures for a more modern look. So take a good look around your house and choose doable projects that stay within your budget.

Every homeowner can benefit from simple, effective, and cost-effective DIY projects to boost a home’s value and selling price.

Start simple: One of the easiest and least expensive ways to rejuvenate a space is with paint. Freshly painted rooms look clean and updated. Choose neutral colors, as these shades appeal to the masses and make your home more move-in ready. Pick up some spackle for repairing holes, plenty of rollers, painter’s tape, drop cloths, and brushes and get going!

Look up: You’ve tackled the walls. Now don’t forget the ceilings. Homes built before the 1990s typically have textured ceilings, like the dreaded popcorn variety. Few things date a house more than popcorn ceilings. Removing it yourself is easier than you might think. All it takes is a pump sprayer with hot water, a ladder, a wide scraper, and a small bucket

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to catch the droppings. Or cover the floors with plastic sheeting and let the old popcorn fly! Then just roll it all up and throw it away.

Pick up some patching compound to fix any irregularities, then sand, prime, and paint.

Let there be light: Your home’s square footage is a key selling point, but you could be making spaces feel smaller by not letting in light. A sunny room feels larger and more open, so replace heavy drapes with blinds or shades you can open completely. A strategically placed mirror directly across from a window reflects even more light into the room. If your house is short on windows, or your property is shaded by trees, have your light fixtures make up the difference with new higher lumens lightbulbs.

Small but significant: The two rooms that sell homes are the kitchen and the bathroom, and they’re the most costly to remodel.

But there are plenty of small updates that can add value and are perfect for DIYers.

Replacing old lighting fixtures or installing budget-friendly tiling instantly updates these areas, and they don’t take weeks to finish. If you’re handy and willing to spend a little more money, replacing an outdated vanity makes buyers take notice. Changing out a smaller item in the kitchen, like a sink or faucet, also adds value.

Curb appeal: Take your DIY skills outside and entice prospective buyers to come inside with simple projects that are easy on the wallet. Simply changing out a busted screen door or an outdated handle and lock set works wonders for the entryway.

Flower boxes and planters are a fantastic way to spruce up the front of your home in the spring. Keep your lawn up to snuff with fertilizers, weed deterrents, and bare spot patching. And a fresh layer of mulch really ties the look together.

Visit your local Do it Best store or doitbest. com for thousands of the best home improvement products, including paint, light fixtures, hardware, and lawn products for all your value-adding DIY projects.

JOHN OBERMEIER is the owner of Obermeier Hardware & Rental in Rockport and is a member-owner of Do it Best Corp., a Fort Waynebased cooperative of thousands of hardware stores, home centers and lumberyards throughout the US and around the world (This article is for informational purposes only. Electric Consumer and Do it Best assume no liability for the accuracy or completeness of its content, or for injuries, property damage, or the outcome of any project.)

safety

When thunder roars, go indoors Lightning safety begins when you hear the rumble of the thunder in an impending storm. Growing up, your parents might have told you to count the seconds between the thunder and a strike of lightning to know how far away the storm was.

“One one thousand, two one thousand, three one thousand…”

But, did you know that if your count was under 30 seconds, the storm is within six miles, putting you and others around you in danger? Indiana Electric Cooperatives wants to ensure you understand the dangers of lightning and how to avoid the risk of death or injury.

“Everyone outside should seek shelter whenever they first see a flash of lightning or feel a rumble of thunder. Both are cues the storm is close enough for lightning to strike,” said Tom VanParis, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives.

Your cooperative hopes that during storms, you are able to find shelter indoors. But if that is not possible, reduce the risk of being struck by lightning by following these safety rules.

LIGHTNING

Myth vs. Fact MYTH: Lightning never strikes the same place twice.

FACT: Lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly, especially if it is a tall, pointy or isolated object. The Empire State Building is hit an average of 23 times a year.

MYTH: A lightning victim is electrified. If you touch him or her, you will be electrocuted.

FACT: The human body does not store electricity. It is perfectly safe to touch a lightning victim to administer first aid. This is the most chilling of lightning myths. Imagine if

• Water and electricity do not mix. If you are caught in a storm while at a pond, lake or pool, get out and away from the water as soon as you hear thunder.

• If you are hiking on a hillside and hear thunder, attempt to move to lower ground because lightning bolts will seek out high points on the surface. This also means you do not want to sit under a tree to stay dry. Never seek shelter in a cave or rocky overhang and do not lay flat on the ground.

• Lastly, place any metal or electrical objects away from you. These include cell phones, GPS units, watches, knives, walking poles, etc.

someone died because people

If you are already indoors or have been able to find shelter during a storm, take these precautions to avoid lightning’s dangers:

your chance of being affected

• While it might be tempting to watch the storm from the safety of your home, stay away from windows and doors.

• Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls, like those found in a basement or garage. Lightning can travel through the metal wires in concrete walls and flooring.

• Stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment.

• Since water and electricity do not mix, avoid plumbing and water. Do not bathe or do laundry.

Following these lightning safety tips can help reduce the risks of danger for you and those around you, but if someone is struck by lightning, he or she may need immediate medical attention. Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge and are safe to touch. Call 911 immediately and start CPR if needed.

were afraid to give CPR!

MYTH: If trapped outside and lightning is about to strike, I should lie flat on the ground.

FACT: Lying flat increases by potentially deadly ground current. If you are caught outside in a thunderstorm, keep moving toward a safe shelter.

MYTH: If outside in a thunderstorm, you should seek shelter under a tree to stay dry.

FACT: Being underneath a tree is the second leading cause of lightning casualties. Better to get wet than fried!

JU L Y 2 018

33

p‘ oplar’

Ask Rosie

State tree is a

landscaping choice

by B. Rosie Lerner

I

f you’ve ever had to work on a tree

are leaf spots, cankers, scale insects, and

leaf collection, no doubt you includ-

aphids. In midsummer, tuliptrees in In-

ed a leaf from Indiana’s state tree.

diana often develop black spots followed

Also known as tulip poplar and yellow

by a yellowing of the foliage thought to

poplar, the tuliptree is actually not a pop-

be related to heat and drought stress.

lar at all. It is a member of the magnolia

Aphids suck plant sap from the leaves, but

family known botanically as Lirioden-

their damage is mostly cosmetic because

dron tulipifera.

they secrete a sticky honeydew that then

The tuliptree is native to most of the eastern half of the United States and prefers

develops a black sooty mold, which lends a dirty appearance in midsummer.

rich, moist, well-drained, loamy soil. It is

Despite all of these problems, the tu-

found throughout Indiana, but it is more

liptree continues to endure and endear,

prevalent in the southern two-thirds of

as demonstrated by its wide availability

the state.

in nearly every garden-center nursery.

Its unusual flowers inspired the common name. The flowers are shaped much like a tulip with greenish-yellow pet-

Given appropriate water and fertilizer, the tuliptree can be a beautiful asset to your home landscape.

als blushed with orange on the inside.

Q: I have a

Yucca tree that is approximately 5-6 years old.

What was a small plant has become a mature tree.

I transplanted my yucca to a larger pot last summer. There was a significant explosion in growth. If you look at the picture you can see the growth.

Unfortunately, it suffered through this past winter being indoors.

Much of the new growth witnessed last year is gone.

Please see the attached photo - I think it speaks for itself. (The green foliage died over the cold winter, yet you can see the growth shoots that remain.)

Because they generally are found high

Do you have a suggestion for helping this tree?

in the leaf canopy, the flowers often go

R.M., Tippecanoe County, Indiana

A: It’s not too surprising that there

unnoticed until they drop off after pollination. The leaves of this tree are also

was more dieback that usual this year given the extreme cold conditions we experienced this past winter. Even indoors in unheated garages got colder than we typically expect. The new green growth at the lower part of the plant looks great. Just cut off the brown, dead stems and the plant will immediately look a lot better! Be sure you cut back to just above where there are healthy looking new shoots.

quite distinct — each one has a large, V-shaped notch at the tip.

Because tuliptrees transplant easily and grow fast, they are a popular choice for in home yards. But don’t be fooled by its small size in the nursery. Give a tuliptree plenty of room in your landscape plan. A tuliptree can reach as tall as 190 feet where it’s allowed to

B. ROSIE LERNER is the Purdue Extension consumer horticulturist and is a consumer of Tipmont REMC. Questions about gardening issues may be sent directly to Rosie at homehort@purdue.edu; mailed to “Ask Rosie,” Electric Consumer, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606; or through our “Talk to Us” form online at ElectricConsumer.org.

thrive, but it is more likely to reach 70 feet tall as a mature landscape specimen.

Tuliptree is not without its share of pests and diseases.

Among the most common

30

P H OTOS B Y R OS IE LERNER, PURDUE EXTENSI O N A N D IS TOC K /GE TTY I M AG ES PLUS

JULY 2018

PHO TO BY R. M

backyard

product recalls

1

ALDI recalls deep fryers for burn hazard Ambiano mini deep fryers have been recalled by ALDI. The deep fryer heating element can overheat, posing fire and burn hazards. The fryers were sold at ALDI stores nationwide from February through March 2018 for about $15. The recalled deep fryers were sold in two colors, brushed stainless steel (model number 20072483) and red (20072490), and have a black lid with a metal food basket.

Call 800-336-9967; or go online at www.aldi.us and click on “Product Recalls” for more information.

2

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

1

Kohler recalls generator switches This recall involves Kohler 100-amp service entrance automatic transfer switches used with Kohler brand residential and commercial generators. Model number RXT-JFNC 100ASE and the serial number are printed on the inside cover of the unit. The transfer switches can fail and overheat, posing a fire hazard. They were sold at authorized Kohler distributors and dealers nationwide from February 2012-January 2018 for about $530.

Call 800-892-7709; or go to www.kohlergenerators. com and click on “Voluntary Recall.”

3

2

Safety switch poses shock hazard Schneider Electric has recalled over 1 million Square D brand General Duty 30 & 60A, 120/240-volt, 2-phase and 3-phase NEMA 3R Safety Switches. The power can stay on when the safety switch handle is in the “OFF” position, posing an electrical shock or electrocution hazard to consumers. The switches may be used in or around commercial buildings, outbuildings, apartments and homes. The recalled switches were manufactured between Jan. 1, 2014-Jan. 18, 2018 and sold at Schneider Electric distributors, Home Depot and others stores nationwide and online for between $40 and $500.

3

Call 877-672-1953; or go to schneider-electric.com and click on “Square D” (under “Quick Links”).

4

Harbor Freight recalls chainsaws Two models of 14-inch chainsaws, sold under three different brand names — Portland, One Stop Gardens and Chicago Electric — have been recalled by Harbor Freight. The power switch can malfunction and allow the chainsaw to continue operating after the operator moves the switch to the “off” position, posing a serious injury hazard to the operator. The recalled chainsaws were sold at Harbor Freight Tools stores nationwide and online May 2009 through February 2018 for about $50.

4

Call 800-444-3353; or go to www.harborfreight.com and click on “Recall Safety Information.”

JULY 2018

31

Wabash Valley Power news

Microgrids: electricity’s future?

Tourists visiting Alcatraz learn about the island’s prison history under light bulbs energized by the high-tech future — one of the nation’s largest microgrids, which powers the site.

Microgrids are localized energy grids that can operate independently. As new energy sources power more of the nation’s towns and cities, new technologies ensure that these sources can connect to the existing energy grid.

Microgrids ensure the value of current infrastructure while keeping up with the technology transformation.

Microgrids arguably provide the most value to co-op communities through their ability to connect and disconnect from the nation’s existing power grid.

When 8.5 million people were left without power in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy in 2012, officials realized the need and importance for a grid with stronger ability to bounce back after an outage.

In times of extreme weather or other emergency situations when blackouts occur, the local microgrid networks can disconnect from the main power system and operate entirely on their own. These systems may be customized to keep critical loads, such as hospitals or water treatment facilities, energized while giving affected communities the ability to quickly recover after a storm.

A microgrid’s ability to operate independently is often through use of nearby generation, such as renewables or generators, as well as energy storage systems. As a result, advances in renewables and battery storage have increased the potential of microgrids.

Although they’ve been around for quite some time, cheaper, localized generation is driving renewed interest in microgrids.

Developments in battery storage have also fueled increased attention. In some

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JULY 2018

states, batteries on microgrids give electric co-ops greater flexibility to save excess electricity when demand is low.

They can be used at a later point when demand increases.

They offer many opportunities to evolve the nation’s infrastructure and enable cooperatives to provide safe, reliable, and affordable power to members well into the future.

As technology advances and costs decline, the benefits of microgrids will continue to receive greater attention.

This piece is derived from an article by Kaley Lockwood for NRECA’s Straight Talk.

Always call 811 before starting fencing & landscaping projects.

Landowners completing these projects were more than three times more likely to hit a buried utility because they did not call 811 before breaking ground.

Row, row, rowing their kayaks, these campers slide on by each other as they navigate the waters of Richard G. Marsh Lake.

Fun times!

YOUTH ACTIVITIES WITH AN ELECTRIC CO-OP TWIST Some 240 Indiana students kicked off their summer breaks with two impactful programs that combine educational experiences with memory-making fun activities.

Touchstone Energy Camp, held June 6-8 at Camp Tecumseh in Brookston, Indiana, offered over 140 incoming seventh graders a traditional summer camp experience while also injecting information about electric safety and electric co-ops. Activities included horseback riding, swimming, archery, canoe and kayak rides — and utility pole climbing, bucket truck rides, and a demonstration showing the kids how to be safe around power lines.

During the Indiana Youth Tour, June 7-14, high school seniors-to-be visited monuments and attractions in and around the Washington, D.C., area; met with Indiana senators and representatives on Capitol Hill; learned about electric cooperatives; developed leadership skills; and made life-long friends from around the state. This year, 100 students participated in Youth Tour.

While on Youth Tour, Steuben County REMC member Annie Delgadillo was selected as Indiana’s representative on the Youth Leadership Council.

Delgadillo will return to Washington, D.C., later this summer to learn more about electric cooperatives and will also attend the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida, in March 2019.

Abigail Vinarcik was named YLC alternate, and Dawson Odle was chosen as runner-up.

Both are Tipmont REMC members.

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JULY 2018

Camper Allison Grieser, sponsored by Boone REMC, tries on a pair of lineman’s gloves for size.

profile Youth Tour participants gather in front of the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, one of their stops during their whirlwind trip.

P HO TO S B Y MA RTY J O NE S A ND L O R I MI L L E R

Campers and their chaperones pause for a photo.

Interested in 2019 trips?

Annie Delgadillo from Steuben County REMC, center, was selected as Indiana’s representative to the Youth Leadership Council. Alternate is Abigail Vinarcik from Tipmont REMC, left.

Dawson Odle, Tipmont REMC, is runner-up.

Students beginning sixth grade this fall will be grade eligible for next year’s Touchstone Energy Camp, and students entering their junior year of high school this fall will be able to apply for the 2019 Indiana Youth Tour. More information on how to apply for these youth programs will be available from your co-op late this fall.

JULY 2018

35