July 2025 - Indiana Connection

HOOSIERS TAKE

CENTER

STAGE Civic theaters are a vital cultural resource for communities throughout Indiana

JULY 2025

from the editor

A significant milestone This month, Indiana Electric Cooperatives (IEC) — the statewide organization that publishes Indiana Connection — is celebrating its 90th anniversary.

On March 9, 1935, Governor Paul V. McNutt signed the Indiana REMC Act into law. The bill, authored by I. Harvey Hull and Frederick Barrows, was the first of its kind in the country, allowing for the formation of rural electric membership cooperatives. The electric power industry would not extend lines to rural areas because they did not find it profitable.

According to “Power to the People,” a book written by former Indiana Connection Editor Emily Schilling, Hull was inspired to create rural co-ops after a trip to Scandinavia in 1933. He was impressed by the high standard of living in the farm communities and their access to electricity. He learned that 65% of rural Norway and Sweden were electrified, which was possible because the consumers owned the electric lines.

Two months after the Indiana law was enacted, President Franklin

VOLUME 75 • NUMBER 1 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by Indiana Electric Cooperatives Indiana Connection is for and about members of Indiana’s locally-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives. It helps consumers use electricity safely and efficiently; understand energy issues; connect with their co-op; and celebrate life in Indiana. Over 311,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership. The average printed and mailed cost per issue is 54 cents.

CONTACT US: 11805 Pennsylvania Street Carmel, IN 46032 317-487-2220 info@indianaconnection.org IndianaConnection.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS: Steve McMichael President

D. Roosevelt signed legislation establishing the Rural Electrification

Dr. Richard Leeper Vice President

Administration as a relief agency. This enabled Congress to allocate $1 million

Jamey Marcum Secretary/Treasurer

for rural electrification projects. As a result, Indiana had the funds needed to create the rural electric co-ops.

The Indiana REMC Act enabled the formation of the Indiana Statewide Rural

John Cassady CEO EDITORIAL STAFF: Britt Davis Editor Mandy Barth Vice President of Communication Lauren Carman Communication Manager

Electric Membership Corporation, which was officially founded in July 1935 to

Ashley Curry Production and Design Coordinator

help develop co-ops throughout the state.

Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist

IEC has evolved significantly over the past nine decades. Still, the organization continues its original goal of promoting and supporting Indiana’s electric coops, enabling them to serve their members effectively. Today, IEC assists the co-ops through government relations, safety training and compliance, culture and career development, and communications.

I’m proud to play a small role in helping Indiana’s electric co-ops serve their members. Here’s to 90 more years of continued success.

Britt Davis Editor bdavis@indianaec.org

On the menu: October: Submit your favorite

you.

sweet and salty recipes, deadline Aug. 1. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Giveaway: Enter to win a $30 gift card from Indiana Caverns.

Visit indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests or send your contact information to the address below. The deadline to enter is July 31.

Three ways to contact us: To send us recipes, photos, letters and entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website indianaconnection.org; email info@indianaconnection.org; or send to Indiana Connection, 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032.

Amber Knight Creative Manager Kiley Lipps Graphic Designer ADVERTISING: American MainStreet Publications Cheryl Solomon, local ad representative; 512-441-5200; amp.coop 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 safekeeping or return of unsolicited material.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $12 for individuals not subscribing through participating REMCs/RECs. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: If you receive Indiana Connection through your electric co-op membership, report address changes to your local co-op.

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

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to: Indiana Connection, 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032. Include key number.

No portion of Indiana Connection may be reproduced without permission of the editor.

JULY 2025

3

contents

JULY

12

18

03 FROM THE EDITOR

14 INDIANA EATS Bo-Mac’s Drive-In is a true American classic

county

05 CO-OP NEWS Energy news and information from your electric cooperative 10 ENERGY Solar energy can create long-term savings and potential energy credits 12 COUNTY Greene County

food

16 SAFETY Keep metallic balloons inside 18 FOOD These award-winning desserts are sure to impress at any summer gathering

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Indiana Connection

20

29

travel

cover story 20 COVER STORY Civic theaters are a vital cultural resource for communities throughout Indiana 26 GRASSROOTS Understanding electric infrastructure: Transmission and distribution

28 HOOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS 29 TRAVEL Discover the family-friendly magic of Indiana Caverns (NOT IN ALL EDITIONS) 30 BACKYARD Pruning helps the summer garden doldrums (NOT IN ALL EDITIONS)

On the cover Troy Bridges and Bella Agresta perform as Dmitry and Anya in a production of Anastasia at the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre in Carmel, Indiana.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CIVIC THEATRE

4 JULY 2025

Into the WOODS

Summer is a perfect time to take to the great outdoors and reconnect with nature through a camping trip.

Many people enjoy packing up their gear and sleeping under the stars. Read on for safety tips to keep in mind before you leave for your open-air adventure.

Wilderness awareness Whether roughing it in a tent or planning a family outing to a national forest, there are many ways to ensure a fun and safe camping experience. Consider the following safety tips.

CHECK THE WEATHER REPORT Before you leave, check the weather. When you arrive at the site, watch the skies for changes and carry a compact weather radio. In inclement weather, find shelter until the worst passes. Stay dry — wet clothes contribute to heat loss.

Also, keep sleeping bags and essential gear dry at all times.

PACK A FIRST-AID KIT Your first-aid kit can prove invaluable if you or a member of your group suffers a cut, bee sting, or allergic reaction.

Pack antiseptics for cuts and scrapes, bandages, tweezers, insect repellent, pain relievers, and sunscreen.

6 JULY 2025

BRING EMERGENCY SUPPLIES In addition to a first-aid kit, bring emergency supplies such as a map, compass, flashlight, knife, waterproof fire starter, personal shelter, whistle, warm clothing, high-energy food, and water.

PITCH YOUR TENT IN A SAFE SPOT Make sure your tent is made of a flame-retardant fabric and set up far enough away from the campfire. Keep insects out of your tent by closing the entrance quickly when entering or leaving.

ARRIVE EARLY Plan your trip so that you arrive at your campsite with enough daylight to check over the entire site and set up camp.

MAKE SURE YOUR FIRES ARE ALWAYS ATTENDED Be sure you have an area for a fire that cannot spread laterally or vertically — a grill or stone surface is ideal. When putting the fire out, drown it with water, ensuring all embers, coals, and sticks are wet. Embers buried deep within the pile can reignite later.

INSPECT THE SITE Look for a level site with enough room to spread out all your gear.

A site with trees or shrubs on the side of prevailing winds will help block strong, unexpected gusts.

Source: U.S. Forest Service

BEWARE OF POISONOUS PLANTS Familiarize yourself with any dangerous plants common to the area. If you come into contact with a poisonous plant, immediately rinse the affected area with water and apply a soothing lotion, such as calamine.

LEARN THE BASICS OF TREATING EMERGENCIES Recognizing serious injuries will enable you to attend to a victim until medical help arrives.

AVOID AREAS OF NATURAL HAZARDS Check the contour of the land and look for potential trouble due to rain. Areas that could flood or become extremely muddy can pose a problem.

flammable trees, brush, or grass to prevent ignition from sparks, flames, and heat.

Never use a flame or any other heating device inside a tent.

Use a flashlight or batterypowered light instead.

BE CAUTIOUS WHEN USING A PROPANE STOVE Read the instructions that come with the stove and propane cylinder. Use the stove only for cooking. Never leave it unattended while it's burning.

DISPOSE OF TRASH PROPERLY Remember to recycle and use the proper recycling bins if available. If there are no trash bins, be prepared with trash bags to take your garbage with you to dispose of properly.

FIND OUT IF YOU CAN HAVE A CAMPFIRE, CHARCOAL BRIQUETTE BARBECUE, OR STOVE Before you leave, contact the closest Forest Service office to where you are going or your campsite office and ask about current fire restrictions. You may also need a specific camping permit, depending on which state you are visiting.

BEWARE WHEN ENCOUNTERING WILDLIFE Keep your campsite clean, and do not leave food, garbage, coolers, cooking equipment, or utensils out in the open.

Remember that bears are potentially dangerous and unpredictable — never feed or approach a bear. Use a flashlight at night. Many animals feed at night, and using a flashlight may warn them away. Use bear-resistant food lockers when available.

Some wilderness areas require the use of bear-resistant food canisters.

WHERE CAMPFIRES ARE ALLOWED, ONLY BUILD FIRES IN DESIGNATED OR PRE-EXISTING FIRE RINGS Your open fires and fuel-burning appliances must be far enough away from your tent and any

Watch out for bugs Hornets, bees, wasps, and yellow jackets are a problem

at many campsites. Bring insect repellant and avoid attracting stinging insects by wearing light-colored clothing and avoiding perfumes or colognes. Should such an insect approach, do not wave wildly and swat at them. Instead, use a gentle pushing or brushing motion to deter them.

JULY 2025

7

Camping with a generator Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature. However, if you're planning a camping trip and want some of the comforts of home, such as electricity, you may consider bringing a generator. Here are some tips for camping with a generator for a safe and comfortable trip.

Choose the right generator The first step in camping with a generator is to choose the right one for your needs.

Consider the size of your camping group, the amount of electricity you will need, and the generator's noise level. Look for a generator that is portable, easy to use, and has a long run time.

Pack properly When packing for your camping trip with a generator, bring all necessary cords and cables to connect your devices. Also, pack enough fuel for the generator, and be sure to store it in a safe and secure location away from heat or flames.

Follow safety guidelines Before operating your generator, carefully read the manufacturer's instructions and follow all safety guidelines. Place the generator on a stable, level surface away from tents and other structures. Never operate a generator inside a tent or enclosed space, as it can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

Use it sparingly While a generator can provide electricity and make your camping trip more comfortable, it's important to use it sparingly. Avoid running the generator for long periods, and turn it off when not in use to conserve fuel and reduce noise pollution.

Be considerate of others When camping with a generator, be considerate of other campers in the area. Keep the generator at a reasonable distance from other tents and structures, and avoid running it during quiet hours.

8 JULY 2025

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energy T H E PAT H T O E N E RGY E F F IC I E NC Y

Solar

Solar energy can create long-term savings and potential energy credits

A dictionary definition of efficiency

else can make solar energy

Regularly assess the panels

is performing a task using the

more efficient?

Regular check-ups are key to

least resources and producing the least waste.

Eliminate shade The first, and perhaps most obvious,

maintaining efficiency. Quarterly preventive checks might help identify unusual output trends that could

Solar energy can certainly

way is to eliminate shade around

demonstrate efficiency by both

solar panels. While direct sunlight

measures. Consumers who use

is not necessary for solar panels to

solar can realize long-term

work, panels under shade do not

savings thanks to smaller utility

produce a high enough output to be

bills and potential revenue from

efficient. This is part of the reason

Reduce reflection

energy credits.

deciding on an ideal location before

Another helpful action is to invest in

installation is critical.

anti-reflection coatings for the solar

Solar energy efficiency has come a

be hampering efficiency. This could be in conjunction with using energy management software to track the daily levels of generation.

panels. Sunlight can be lost through

long way since the first photovoltaic

Face south

(PV) solar cells were created in

Another reason that location is

1883. Back then, they converted

important is to ensure optimal

only 1 to 2% of the total sunlight

orientation for efficiency. Generally

Control power consumption

into usable energy.

speaking, the ideal orientation is for

Managing power consumption can

solar panels to face south, ensuring

increase solar efficiency. Avoid

maximum sunlight exposure

running appliances like a dishwasher,

throughout the day to get the highest

microwave, and washing machine

output possible.

simultaneously, and turn off lights and

Today’s PV solar cells have an average commercial energy conversion rate of 15 to 20%, and high-efficiency panels can reach as high as 23%.

Increasing the energy conversion rate is the only way to improve that efficiency further. However, scientists say the limit of what’s possible is 33%.

Keep them clean

reflection, reducing what remains available to convert into energy.

fans when possible.

After solar panels are installed, they

Add batteries

need occasional cleaning. How often

Finally, add solar batteries to

this occurs depends on the climate

enhance the system’s power to

where the solar panels are located.

store unused energy during the day.

They are particularly susceptible to

Installing batteries close to solar

natural dust accumulation, which

panels will reduce any energy lost in

If you have solar energy or are

can lead to as much as a 13%

transmission.

thinking about installing it, what

decline in output over three months.

by Jennifer

Scott Member Experience Manager Whitewater Valley REMC

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county feature

Greene County COUNTY FACTS

Greene County is home to one of the largest wetland restoration sites in the United States — the Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area. Spanning more than 9,000 acres of restored prairie and marshland, the nature preserve attracts more than 12,000 visitors annually for birdwatching, fishing, and hunting.

HISTORY ACROSS THE TRESTLE Known as Indiana’s “most spectacular railroad bridge,” the Tulip Trestle stretches 2,295 feet across Greene County, connecting the towns of Solsberry and Tulip. Built in 1905 by Italian immigrants to transport coal, it was the longest rail trestle in the United States at the time and the third longest in the world. While passenger trains once traveled across the viaduct, that service was discontinued in 1948.

Today, the Tulip Trestle remains in use as part of the Indiana Rail Road line that runs from Newton, Illinois, to Indianapolis.

Public domain

FOUNDED:

Photo courtesy of Cheryl Helms

1821

NAMED FOR: Nathaniel Greene, a military officer in the Revolutionary War

POPULATION: 30,803

COUNTY SEAT: Bloomfield

Photo courtesy of Linton-Stockton Chamber of Commerce

INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 28

Tulip Linton

BIG TALENT FROM A SMALL TOWN Born in Linton in 1904, Phil Harris was an American entertainer best known for his role on “The Jack Benny Program” and for co-starring with his wife, actress and singer Alice Faye, on “The Phil Harris-Alice Faye Show.” Harris was also a voice actor in classic animated films, lending his voice to Baloo in “The Jungle Book,” Thomas O’Malley in “The Aristocats,” and Little John in “Robin Hood.” Before his death in 1995, Harris and Faye donated their show business memorabilia to the Linton Public Library, which now features a commemorative collection honoring his legacy.

12 JULY 2025

INDIANA’S INDEPENDENCE DAY TRADITION Nearly 40,000 people visit Linton, Indiana, each year to celebrate the 4th of July during the city’s annual Linton Freedom Festival. This weeklong celebration at Humphrey Park includes a carnival, classic car show, flea market, golf tournament, 5K run, and more. The Linton Freedom Festival Parade, known as Indiana’s largest Independence Day parade, features festive floats and live music. Two 3- to 5-year-olds are crowned Miss Sparkler and Mr. Firecracker to represent their city in the parade.

Nicole Thomas is a freelance writer from Indianapolis.

Bloomfield

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters have been edited for length and clarity I appreciated the article on Ernie Pyle in the recent Indiana Connection.

We went to the museum in Dana several years ago. My husband and I have read “Ernie’s War,” which includes many of his columns. As the article commented, I felt that what he wrote about were not battles, but how the soldiers managed to live through the war. I understand why his columns were so important to the people back home. I also appreciated reading your own personal experience in learning about Ernie Pyle. He is someone to remember and honor.

My husband and I moved to Indiana from Chicago when we retired 15 years ago. We have been intentional about getting to know our adopted state and have noted some of the places mentioned in Indiana Connection for future trips. We are proud to be Hoosiers.

— Chris Schrey

I just wanted to let you know that I enjoyed reading the sobering article in the May issue of Indiana Connection magazine about the Guatemala mission trip of sorts that several REMC linemen made back in January and February.

I can’t stop thinking about the young girl the men met while working to install electricity for the first time in her remote village. She is 6 years old, the “head of the household,” and trying to care for younger siblings, mostly on her own. I cannot imagine it, and I am so touched to read about this extreme poverty and deprivation. And they are just now, in 2025, getting electricity for the first time. Incredible.

— Anne Keller

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CORRECTION In the June issue, the measurements for a portion of the Blueberry Kuchen recipe on page 19 were incorrect. The correct measurements for the topping are: ¾ cup sugar, ½ cup all-purpose flour, and ¼ cup melted butter. We apologize for this error.

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JULY 2025

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A TRUE AMERICAN CLASSIC Bo-Mac’s Drive-In continues the tradition of great food and memorable moments in Shoals owners in their own handwriting,” said

The drive-in offers shakes, malts,

Todd Baker.

cups, cones, sundaes, and flurries

These items include “Rox” burgers — two cheeseburgers stacked with

variety of toppings.”

hand-sliced, breaded onion rings and

A sampling can start with soft-serve

bacon — and “Coneys,” a take on the

chocolate or vanilla. Shake and malt

Coney Island hot dog smothered in a

territory can intersect with mint, cherry,

rich, meaty sauce.

pumpkin, pineapple, or blue raspberry.

Those “sandwiches” in the Bo-Mac’s sign? There are 17 different choices.

Eight are burgers, including one

I

with what Baker calls “an endless

“Firehouse Burger,” a cheeseburger

Floats can bob in Coca-Cola, root beer, red cream soda, or Dr. Pepper.

Flurries can be mixed with ingredients like cheesecake bites and pina colada.

The “Gold Brick” flurry has Heath bar,

n 1960, an attorney and a doctor

topped with hot sauce, jalapenos,

decided to dip their toes into the

coney sauce, and coleslaw. The rest

popular drive-in business. Bob and

include catfish or cod and a variety

Bo-Mac’s is open from April to October

Mac created their drive-in restaurant

of grilled or hand-breaded chicken

and again from around Thanksgiving

near the intersection of Routes 50 and

options.

until February. Baker said one of his

150 in Shoals, Indiana, and named it after themselves.

Most of Bo-Mac’s 18 side dishes, such as fries, fried mushrooms, and

butterscotch, and nuts.

favorite parts of the business is what people share beneath the glowing sign, in addition to its food.

Bo-Mac’s became an area institution.

chicken strips, are dippable. Some

Its neon sign, still glowing today like a

have a twist like corn dog bites,

“I’ve been coming here for as long

vintage beacon, has five words in all

nacho nuggets, and fried pickles, as

as I can remember, as it is with many

caps — SHAKES, SUNDAES, ROOT

well as potato salad, coleslaw, and

locals, as well as their children and

BEER, SANDWICHES — below its

baked beans.

grandchildren,” he said. “First dates,

taunting swirl of ice cream sweeping skyward from a tilted sugar cone.

In addition to a la carte for many of the above items, there are

Current owners Todd and Blair

baskets, platters, buckets, and even

Baker purchased it in 2021 from the

barrels. Monthly, Bo-Mac’s offers an

Ragsdale family, who took it on a few

assortment of barbecued pork, which

years after it opened. They keep with

is smoked, grilled, or pulled.

the place’s tradition of sharing food and memories outdoors around picnic tables and in cars, which are still attended by carhops.

A BOUNDLESS SELECTION Bo-Mac’s has an array of savory options, but many customers are beckoned by the swirl on the sign.

AND SIDES

“Ice cream is what we’re really

“Some of our main items that are

known for,” Baker said.

14 JULY 2025

it’s important to us to provide that space for customers and deliver a good experience and make more memories.”

Stephanie Bernaba is a freelancer with national reach who thrives on topics like food and entertainment.

OF ICE CREAM

BURGERS, SANDWICHES,

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safety

KEEP METALLIC BALLOONS INSIDE

helium or not — break it loose from

Also, keep the weight attached until

the string, and blow it into overhead

the balloons are deflated.

power lines.

If you see a Mylar balloon in contact

If this happens, the metallic coating

with a power line or in an electric

You may be planning a celebration

can conduct electricity and cause

substation, never attempt to

this summer and looking to use fun

a short circuit or power surge when

retrieve it yourself. Keep yourself

decorations to help get everyone

in contact with the lines. This can

and all other items and people at

in the spirit. If you're thinking about

lead to large-scale power outages,

least 20 feet away. Call the electric

using balloons outdoors, you should

melting of electrical wires, and fires.

utility or 911.

keep safety in mind.

Any of these can lead to possible

Metal-coated balloons, or Mylars,

injuries and property damage.

When spending time outside this summer, stay far away from a

can cause significant problems and

Helium-filled balloons that float away

downed or low-hanging power line.

pose a public safety risk. This kind

can drift for days and miles and

Always assume downed or low-

of balloon is linked to thousands

come down anywhere. They are a

hanging lines are electrified and

of power outages each year. But

risk to power lines and can also be

dangerous. Call 911 immediately if

Indiana Electric Cooperatives wants

dangerous to animals.

you see a downed line.

To reduce the risk of outages and

Remember, balloons can be fun

injuries associated with Mylar

additions to your parties this

balloons, remember to keep them

summer. Just make sure you use

It’s helpful to know why these

away from power lines. In addition,

caution and practice safety with

metal-coated balloons can cause

make sure to tie helium-filled ones

Mylar balloons.

issues. For starters, a gust of wind

to a weight that’s heavy enough to

can grab the balloon — filled with

prevent them from floating away.

you to know there are some ways to reduce the risk and safely use these balloons.

16 JULY 2025

Chris Adam is a freelance writer from Lafayette.

pets

Dog meets baby Ensure the first meeting between your new addition and your furry friend is a success our dog may own the spotlight

Y

toy protective, or anxiousness from

now, but the arrival of a new baby

sudden movements. These aren’t

requires adjustments, reassurance,

deal-breakers, but they do provide

needs met, like food, water, exercise,

and strategies to ensure a happy,

opportunities to train and redirect

and attention. Put the dog on its

safe interaction. Consider these tips

behaviors.

harness and leash and keep the

whether you are preparing for a new

Set the tone

baby secure before approaching

with a baby might look like. If you’re

overstimulated. Keep the first visit

child in your home or a new grandchild who will visit often.

Assess the norm

Familiarize your dog with what life welcoming the child, this will look

Make the introduction

Make sure your dog has its basic

slowly, pausing if the dog becomes short, reward desired behavior, and repeat this routine to normalize the

Determine a baseline for your dog’s

different than welcoming a grandchild,

typical behavior, including whether it

niece, or nephew. Prepare your home

baby’s presence.

has previous experience with children.

with baby’s supplies early so your dog

Monitor every visit between dog and

Look for potential challenges, like

can get used to rearranged furniture

baby and watch for stress signals,

tugging, jumping, being overly food or

and new off-limits playthings.

like pacing, yawning, and lip-

Get into the groove

smacking. If you see any of these,

Practice your new routine, especially if your pet is your shadow. You

end the visit with a gentle redirection without punishment and try again

may be prepared for sleepless

another time.

nights, but your dog could

Future best friends

become startled or agitated by hourly wakeups. Give them a mini boot camp to

Prioritize consistency and keep your dog’s usual routine going, maintaining walks and playtime to prevent jealousy

help them get used to

and anxiety. Provide a safe, baby-

regular disruptions.

free zone for your dog to relax in,

Avoid providing

especially as the baby grows and

bathroom breaks

becomes more curious. Be consistent,

unless they’re

teach gentle interactions, monitor

seniors, lest

visits, and work with a dog trainer if

you create an

you need help.

unsustainable expectation.

Natalie Derrickson is a writer based in Indianapolis.

JULY 2025

17

BLUE-RIBBON

recipes

These grand champion desserts are sure to impress at any summer gathering

TOA S T E D C OC ON U T P ECA N PIE Charlotte Rymph, Monterey, Indiana 3 eggs, beaten 1½ cups sugar ½ cup butter, melted 2 tsp lemon juice 1 tsp vanilla 1 1⁄3 cups shredded coconut ½ cup coarsely broken pecans 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell

Preheat oven to 350 F. Thoroughly whisk together the eggs, sugar, butter, lemon juice, and vanilla.

Stir in the coconut and pecans, then pour into the pie shell. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes at 350 F or until filling is set. The pie can be garnished with whipped cream and pecan halves.

“With this recipe, I won first place in the Pillsbury Pie Baking Championship at the Indiana State Fair in 2013.”

FOOD PREPARED BY INDIANA CONNECTION STAFF PHOTOS BY KILEY LIPPS

18 JULY 2025

food RED DEVIL'S F O OD CAKE Virginia L Bennett, Richardson, Texas 2 cups sugar

1 tsp vanilla

¾ cup butter

1 rounded tsp baking soda

2 eggs

½ cup cocoa

1 cup buttermilk, separated

1 cup boiling water

3 cups flour, separated

“This recipe was featured in the 1931 and 2001 Covington United Methodist Church cookbooks. When my niece was in 4-H in South Dakota, she entered it in the county contest, where it won the grand champion prize.

This made it eligible for the South Dakota State Fair, where it also won grand champion.”

Combine the cocoa, baking soda, and boiling water. Stir well and set aside. Cream together the sugar and butter. Beat the eggs and add to the creamed mixture. Alternately add 1⁄3 cup of buttermilk and 1 cup of flour, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla and cocoa mixture, stirring until blended. Pour into two greased and floured 9-inch cake pans or 48 cupcake tins lined with paper inserts. Bake at 350 F for 30 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cake and frost with any icing of your choice.

I CI N G S U G G E S T I O N 2 Tbsp cocoa

3 Tbsp whipping cream

2 cups powdered sugar

½ tsp vanilla

6 Tbsp softened butter Beat all ingredients together until light and fluffy.

Makes 1 1⁄ 3 cups of frosting.

P I N E A P P L E PIE Donna Dettmer, Columbus, Indiana 1½ cups sugar ½ cup butter, softened but not melted 1 cup crushed pineapple, juice included 3 Tbsp flour 1 tsp vanilla 2 eggs 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell Beat together all the ingredients. Pour the mixture into an unbaked pie shell and bake for 50 minutes at 350 F or until it sets and the crust is brown.

“This pie was made by my daughter for a 4-H foods project and won a grand champion ribbon.”

JULY 2025

19

Mackenzie Foulks and Kaycee Beck perform as the Haynes sisters in White Christmas at the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre.

(Photo courtesy of Civic Theatre)

Civic theaters are a vital cultural resource for communities throughout Indiana

HOOSIERS TAKE

CENTER

STAGE

BY JULIE YOUNG

20 JULY 2025

As the longest continually operating community theater in the country, the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre has been part of the central Indiana landscape since 1914.

(Photo courtesy of Civic Theatre)

Civic theaters are companies of

where performances are held…they

Theatre Society of Indiana in 1914,

performing and non-performing

are the connective tissue that keeps

the company installed itself in the

players dedicated to providing

communities knitted together.”

sculpture court of the John Herron Art

accessible live theatrical events to the take place in a variety of venues, and

‘LITTLE THEATRES’ EVERYWHERE

their seasonal offerings may include

Civic theaters grew out of the Little

plays, musicals, youth productions,

Theatre movement that operated

classic works, and emerging voices.

throughout the United States in the

Whether in a big city or a small town,

early 20th century. These companies

civic theaters are a vibrant cultural

were organized by committed

resource that brings together people

volunteers who staged experimental

of all ages and backgrounds.

and royalty-free performances

local community. Their productions

Luckily, Indiana is home to hundreds of civic theaters and other arts organizations that operate under the civic model. While some offer yearround professional performances, others might be seasonal labors of love for an all-volunteer cast and crew or geared for a niche audience.

“If you are looking for theater in Indiana, you are going to find it,” said Miah Michaelsen, executive director of the Indiana Arts Commission. “They are much more than the buildings

wherever they could find an available space. Through a combination of community support, local pride, and a desire to develop American playwrights, Little Theatres evolved into the civic theater model that exists today.

Institute. It opened a year later with a presentation of four plays, including “The Killing Triangle: A Domestic Melodrama”.

“The goal of the Little Theatre movement was to put new works on stage — a lot of which were melodramas,” said Michael Lasley, executive artistic director of the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre. “In fact, if you look at a list of productions from the first 30 years, there is virtually nothing that is recognizable.”

VAUDEVILLE EXPERIENCE When New Harmony native Frances Golden retired from the Vaudeville

As the longest continually operating

circuit and returned to southern

community theater in the United

Indiana in 1920, she brought along her

States, the Booth Tarkington Civic

considerable experience.

Theatre in Carmel has been part of the central Indiana landscape for over a century. Founded as the Little

continued on page 22

JULY 2025

21

The Evansville Civic Theatre purchased the Columbia Theater building in 1974.

The theater was built in 1910 and had previously served as a beer garden, burlesque club, and movie house. (Photo courtesy of Evansville Civic Theatre)

friendships resulting from working with others in the creative process.”

NO PLACE LIKE HOME Cultivating an inclusive community through live theater is one thing, but finding a place to perform is another.

After a decade of showcasing their talents in several all-purpose rooms and rented auditoriums, the Little Theatre Society of Indiana constructed a 240-seat playhouse in 1924. The facility was championed by noted author and playwright Booth Tarkington, whose works were often performed by Little Theatres, and he felt that they had an important role to play in the community.

The new playhouse opened in 1926 with a production of “Treasure Island,” and three years later, the company adopted a new name: Civic Theatre continued from page 21 Having performed alongside her family members since she was a toddler and

and purpose that has shaped the company’s character for over 90 years.

of Indianapolis. (Tarkington’s name would be added around 1949-1950 to honor the company’s early patron.)

Since its inception, the Booth

touring as a young adult throughout

CREATING CONNECTIONS

the U.S. and Europe, she was the

Founded in 1947, Elkhart Civic

five unique homes, including the

Theatre traces its roots to the Elkhart

Showalter Pavilion on the grounds of

Little Theaters, which provided

the Indianapolis Museum of Art and

high-quality productions of classic

Marian University, before settling into

Shakespearean plays from a

The Tarkington, a 513-seat auditorium

residential carriage house. The group

at the Allied Solutions Center for

performed throughout the late 1920s

the Performing Arts just north of

and into the 1930s, until World War II

Indianapolis in Carmel. In this state-of-

forced the company into an extended

the-art space, they continue to foster

hiatus. Although its name changed

a love of theater through imagination,

after the relaunch, its objective

educational programming, and offering

the volunteer director of the theater

remained the same.

Broadway-caliber performances at

from 1928 to 1941 while also training

“Elkhart Civic Theatre gives

community theater prices.

community members an artistic outlet

Lasley said that the last part isn’t

and a way to make connections

easy. “Almost everything you see

with others,” said Executive Director

on the mainstage is the work of

Dave DuFour. “For many, the social

volunteer performers and crew

aspect is very important with lifelong

members, but we are a professionally

perfect person to partner with the Evansville Recreation Commission to create the city’s first community theater company in 1925.

Originally known as the People’s Players and The Community Players, the Evansville Community Theatre opened in 1927 with a production of “Fashion, or Life in New York” by Anna Cora Mowatt. Golden served as

young singers at the local college (today, the University of Evansville) and operating her own conservatory, The Golden Studio of Voice. A true go-getter, Golden gave the Evansville theater community a sense of stability

22 JULY 2025

Tarkington Civic Theatre has occupied

In 1961, Elkhart Civic Theatre was able to lease, and ultimately purchase, the Bristol Theatre from the Moiser family, renaming it the Bristol Opera House.

(Photo courtesy of Elkhart Civic Theatre)

Columbia Theater as its permanent home after years of performing in various indoor and outdoor locations.

“Our building, which we acquired in 1974, holds a rich history, having previously served as a beer garden, burlesque club, and movie theater Actors perform the tavern scene from Fiddler on the Roof at the Elkhart Civic Theatre. (Photo courtesy of Elkhart Civic Theatre)

managed company, which means we have a full-time staff. We also hire choreographers and musicians to help frame the performance you see on stage. It makes what we do expensive, comparatively speaking, but the end product you see is more polished.”

FUNDING CHALLENGES Although Frances Golden was alive to see the Evansville Community Theatre rebrand itself as the Evansville Civic Theatre in 1956, she did not live to see the organization secure the old

before coming under our ownership,” said Theatre Administrator Danielle Scott.

Built in 1910, the 222-seat space provided the organization with the perfect home for nearly 50 years.

However, keeping up with a 115-yearold building does not come cheap. continued on page 24

JULY 2025

23

Renée La Schiazza performs as Maria with the Von Trapp children in a production of The Sound of Music at the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre.

(Photo courtesy of Civic Theatre)

continued from page 23

of locations, including the auditorium

to connect the two spaces into one

When a 2020 fundraising effort

of the old downtown high school

and made several other improvements

before moving into the former YWCA

so that it could serve their needs.

building (now known as the Lexington

Although the stage is quite small, it

House). Although the YWCA had a

offers a larger backstage, wing, and

stage, it proved to be inadequate for

downstage areas, allowing them

Benjamin Bosse High School.

the company’s needs, and in 1961,

to do more than they could at the

Scott said securing adequate

Elkhart Civic Theatre was able to

YWCA. In 2018, the lobby was given

lease, and ultimately purchase, the

a $110,000 renovation made possible

Bristol Theatre from the Moiser family,

by the generosity of theater patrons

renaming it the Bristol Opera House.

and a matching grant from the Elkhart

fell short of its $150,000 goal, the Evansville Civic Theatre opted to say goodbye to the Fulton Street space and temporarily take up residence in

funding is a challenge facing many theater communities today. “As an organization, we do all we can, and we are deeply grateful to those who contribute both their time and financial support…While many theater companies face the same

Built in two phases at the end of the 19th century by a local businessman, the original building housed the town’s post office, a basement barber

Community Foundation. However, DuFour said there are always more needs than money, and fundraising is an ongoing process.

shop, and a lodge meeting room

“Community theaters are affected by

on the second floor. The auditorium

rising costs just as much as any other

was added a few years later in

business,” he said. “At Elkhart Civic

hopes that the interurban railway

Theatre, utilities, insurance, lumber,

system would grow and create a

fabric, and many other components

need for entertainment opportunities.

have risen in price over the last couple

community.”

Unfortunately, the railway failed, and

of years, and theaters must cover

aside from a few local events, the

those costs.”

A BUILDING FILLED WITH STORIES

theater was rarely used.

Like its counterparts, Elkhart Civic

Civic Theatre opened up the archways

challenges, each person associated with our theater strongly believes that through volunteering, whether behind-the-scenes or performing, we are helping to provide an artistic outlet and appreciation for the arts in our

Theatre made its home in a variety

24 JULY 2025

After purchasing the building, Elkhart

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT Civic theaters are also challenged by the fact that audiences have so

many more sources of entertainment

amateur or professional organization,

are your friends and neighbors, and

than they did during the Little Theatre

so the rest of those dollars must be

every dollar you invest in a civic

days or even a few decades ago.

made up elsewhere.”

theater stays in the local market. In

Streaming services provide almost unlimited, cheap entertainment, so the challenge for any civic theater is to sell people on the value of seeing a live performance.

That usually means grants, donations, and sponsorships, but finding someone to write those grants, solicit those donations, and seek out those sponsorships is another challenge. It’s

Michaelsen explains that, like other

also harder to get the word out about

arts organizations, civic theaters are

the local theater company when so

constantly competing for audience

many communities no longer have

dollars and between materials, venue

local television or radio stations to

rentals, administrative costs, and

help promote the mission.

more, it’s not getting any cheaper to put on a show.

those who support the arts. Typically, local businesses sponsor these productions, so consider being a

skillset that can benefit your local

“Trying to get the word out in a

theater organization, there is no time

fragmented media environment is

like the present to volunteer.

said. “You are pretty much at the whim

you would have five years ago, but

of social media and the algorithm.”

of production costs, no matter if it is an

their hard work? Second, support

you sing, act, dance, or have another

produce plays for less money than

revenue only covers 40 to 50 percent

of your time and money to support

community. Third, participate! Whether

something we hear consistently,” she

Michaelsen said. “Generally, ticket

and talent, so why not donate some

customer of these businesses in your

“You are never going to be able to

that is the nature of live performance,”

most cases, they volunteer their time

“Our doors are always open,” said Scott, “Whether you are interested in auditioning, volunteering, attending a

So, how can audiences support their

performance, or participating in one

local civic theater organization? First,

of our community events. You are

attend a performance. The people

always welcome. No prior experience

on that stage and behind the scenes

is required.”

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25

grassroots

HOW ELECTRICTY

UNDERSTANDING ELECTRIC INFRASTRUCTURE:

TRANSMISSION and DISTRIBUTION Electric infrastructure (sometimes

to maintain proper wire tension

referred to as “the grid”) is the

and safety clearances. They are

network that delivers electricity

equipped to withstand environmental

from power plants to homes and

conditions such as wind, rain, and

businesses. It consists of three

some ice.

primary components: generation, transmission, and distribution systems.

TRANSMISSION Transmission lines carry highvoltage electricity over long distances. They are supported by large towers and can span many miles and across states.

Once the transmission system

Distribution poles play a critical role in maintaining consistent and reliable power delivery. They typically carry three types of wires: • Primary distribution lines: These lines carry electricity at medium voltage.

• Secondary lines: These further reduce voltage for household use.

• Neutral or ground wires:

carries the electricity to a substation,

These help to ensure safety

the voltage is reduced through

and system balance.

transformers to a usable level for homes and most businesses.

This is where the distribution system begins.

GETS TO YOU STEP 1 Generation Electricity is generated from various sources

STEP 2 Step-Up Transformer Voltage is increased to push the electricty over long distances.

STEP 3 Transmission Power Lines Lines carry electricity over long distances.

STEP 4 Transmission Substation Voltage is lowered so electricity can travel across the local system.

STEP 5 Distribution Substation Voltage is lowered further for safe distribution.

Poles may also support transformers, which step down the voltage to final usable levels.

Electric distribution poles can also

STEP 6 Distribution Power Lines Electricity travels across these lines in your community.

DISTRIBUTION

accommodate telecommunication

Distribution lines carry lower-voltage

serving as the physical backbone of

electricity from substations to

broadband deployment.

STEP 7 Final Stop

Understanding the basics of electric

A transformer reduces voltage a final time, and electricity is sent to your home.

homes, schools, and businesses.

These lines are most commonly supported by electric poles in the public rights-of-way, which form the core of the visible distribution network. Electric poles are strategically engineered and spaced

26 JULY 2025

and cable broadband lines, thus

infrastructure — particularly the transmission and distribution system and its poles — highlights how vital and complex this network is in powering everyday life.

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Hoosier Energy news Plant Manager Kent Schmohe and Hoosier Energy Director of Generation Strategy Cory Samm on site at Holland Energy Plant

Holland Energy Plant

Critical improvements Hoosier Energy continues to enhance and develop the Holland Energy Plant The Holland Energy Plant, located

the journey began in Thailand. A

in central Illinois and co-owned by

ship carried them across the Pacific

Hoosier Energy and Wabash Valley

Ocean, through the Panama Canal,

Power Alliance, has undergone the

and to the Port of Houston, spanning

largest outage in its two-decade-old

12,700 miles and 26 days. From there,

history this spring and summer.

the final 879 miles required special

Three major projects have been the focus at the natural gas facility: steam

load semis pulling special trailers due to the size and weight of the bundles.

turbine inspection, gas turbine hot gas

The rest of the work is no less crucial.

path inspection, and replacement of

The steam turbine inspection must be

both Heat Recovery Steam Generator

done every 10 years.

(HRSG) LP feed water heater tube bundles.

“It’s really a report card on how we operate and how things are going

“The LP water heater is taking care

as far as steam quality and how we

of some longstanding issues we’ve

operate the plant,” said Schmohe.

had both with the reliability of that unit, as far as leaks, as well as some back pressure on the unit,” Holland Plant Manager Kent Schmohe said.

“It’s been a three-year project in the making.”

After opening the turbine and taking it to a shop in Milwaukee, the inspection found issues with the rotor and cracks in the leads. Resolving these issues took more time and money than expected, as Toshiba, the

Getting the tube bundle replacements

manufacturer, worked to get things

to the plant was an undertaking, as

back up to speed.

28 JULY 2025

“We took care of those discoveries to make sure the unit is going to stay reliable for the next 10 years,” said Schmohe.

Last, but not least, the hot gas path on gas turbine No. 2 needs maintenance every five years.

“We use GE for that work,” Schmohe said. “There were very few discovery items, but we took care of those, so it should be ready to run for the summer and years to come.”

Over the past few years, Holland Energy Plant has been breaking records — achieving higher capacity, increasing operating time, and reducing restarts. This made the outage critically important.

Wabash Valley Power news

Our commitment

to you

SHEDDING LIGHT ON RELIABILITY This past Memorial Day weekend, more than 100,000 people across Louisiana had an “unexpected outage.” To the regional electrical grid operator, it was a “load shed” event. Some folks called it a “black out.”

Whatever label is used, people lost their power. As Wabash Valley Power Alliance’s CEO, this is what keeps me up at night.

Wabash Valley Power Alliance is your generation partner. Our role is to get large amounts of electricity to your community. Your local co-op then delivers it to homes, businesses, farms, and schools. When you ask where your electricity comes from and how it gets to your community, the proverbial “buck stops here.” Reliable and affordable power is what we hang our hats on and plan for all day, every day. My team and I take this responsibility seriously — that may be the reason for those sleepless nights. The work is essential because electric co-ops were founded on serving rural areas that others would not.

The Louisiana event was triggered when a nuclear plant went offline while another power plant was down for regular maintenance. To say there is one reason why this happened would oversimplify a complex and critical issue our industry is facing. We live in an era of unprecedented electricity demand when, simultaneously, many power supply “work horses,” like coal plants, are forced or need to close. We also have aging and inadequate infrastructure, such as large transmission (power lines) sending electricity to our communities. There is a lot to unpack here.

In the coming months, we will use Indiana Connection to update you on issues we face while “keeping the lights on.” Feel free to send Vicki Gardner, ideas on what you want to know. She can be reached at v_gardner@wvpa.com.

Jeff Conrad President and CEO Wabash Valley Power Alliance

28 JULY 2025

travel

Underground adventure DIS COV ER T H E MAG IC OF I NDI ANA C AV ERNS, WHE RE TH ERE’S FU N FOR T H E WHOLE FA MI LY You might remember learning about caves and fossil formations years ago, but now is the time to add the magic of discovery back into your life.

Indiana Caverns, located in Corydon, Indiana, welcomes visitors yearround, rain or shine, making it a perfect Midwest travel spot.

THE BAT CHASER

Cave Tours Home to one of the largest deposits of Ice Age bones, visitors can get an up-close view of fossilized remains, cave formations, and even a 40-foot waterfall. The 75-minute tour brings explorers of all ages 110 feet below

CAVE TOURS

civilization into the 56-degree caves, culminating at an underground river, an almost cinematic experience. The grated steel walkways guide tourgoers toward the river and onto a pontoon-style boat to gain deeper access to the cave and get closer to its formations.

Gemstone mining If the cave tour has inspired you, discover more natural wonders by sifting through sand at the Peccary Mining Sluice. Great for all ages, explorers find treasures like fossils and gemstones while learning about their discoveries and how they came to be. The mine is open rain or shine and is a great option for all ages and those not quite ready for the cave tour.

Plus, your mining spoils are yours to keep!

The Bat Chaser Take to the skies on the Bat Chaser — part zip-line, part roller coaster — and fly among the trees and over the sinkhole plain Indiana’s caves call home. Take off from the attraction’s 50-foot tower and travel 603 feet, twisting and turning through the groves with the best view in Southern Indiana.

The Plunge For the most thrill-seeking types, there’s The Plunge, a 50-foot quick-drop experience that offers the exhilaration of bungee jumping with greater control. Using a controlled descent system, jumpers get the adrenaline fix without the recoil, landing on their feet, often ready for round two.

Natalie Derrickson is a writer based in Indianapolis.

INDIANA CAVERNS 1267 Green Acres Dr. SW, Corydon, IN 47112

View hours and buy tickets at indianacaverns.com.

JULY 2025

29

backyard

Pruning helps the summer garden doldrums Some Indiana gardeners get the mid-summer “blahs,” and our plants are no different. Summer annuals may look leggy with smaller flowers, and perennials may have too many seed heads. Flowering shrubs may be dotted with brown, dead flowers.

All these “blahs” can be easily fixed.

The benefits of deadheading Annuals like cosmos and zinnia benefit from removing the spent flowers, called deadheading.

Perennials also benefit from this.

Many annuals and perennials have a main stem and side shoots.

Rather than just cut plants back, be selective. Look at the stem to see where the side shoots are. Remove the spent flower stem just above the side shoot. This allows the side shoots to develop new flowers and keep the plants blooming.

ANNUAL S Petunia, verbena, sweet potato vine, coleus, and other annuals in pots can take a few snips to rein in their legginess and shape them. Use scissors, hand pruners, or your thumb and forefinger for the job. Then give the plant a shot of water-soluble fertilizer, according to label directions. If some annuals struggle with the heat, such as pansies, Diascia, or Gerber daisies, consider pulling them out and

30 JULY 2025

replacing them with plants that can tolerate summer weather. Most garden centers still have plants ready for the job.

PE R E N N IA LS Deadhead spent or dead flowers from coneflowers, phlox, black-eyed Susans, salvias, and others. When the perennial is done blooming, cut it back to the base of the plant.

Other perennials, such as iris, may have a single stem. There are no side shoots, and the flowers bloom along the stem. In this case, cut them down to the base of the plant.

In the case of irises, it’s likely done blooming for the season, and removing the stems tidies up the perennial.

SH R U B S Now is the time to remove the spent flowers on your springblooming shrubs. Many spring shrubs like lilacs, hydrangeas, and forsythias bloom on year-old wood.

Next year’s flowers develop on stems beginning late summer.

For this task, remove just the spent flowers. You may notice that lower on the stem are side shoots, which will produce next year’s flowers.

Like with perennials and annuals, remove the spent flower stem above the side shoots.

If the shrub needs to be pruned or shaped, be selective. Shrubs are usually meant to be tabletops or balls. For the lowest maintenance, allow shrubs to be themselves — upright, rounded, cascading, or fountain.

When not to deadhead If you feed the birds, squirrels, and other critters, allow the seed heads to remain, especially as we transition to cooler weather.

Wildlife appreciates the winter smorgasbord.

Jo Ellen Meyers Sharp blogs at hoosiergrdener.com.

Scan the QR code for more information on pruning trees and shrubs.

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