Kosciusko REMC — June 2018 Electric Consumer

Kosciusko REMC

YOUR INDIANA COOPERATIVE COMPANION

T he Best

of Indiana

Readers rave about their faves

J UN E 2018

Readers’ Choice for Indiana’s ‘Claim to Fame’ …

The Indianapolis 500

Graduations and transitions Why today’s grads should consider co-op careers

from the editor

Garfield hits 40 It’s fitting that in this issue — which celebrates the Best of Indiana — I acknowledge the 40th birthday of a true Hoosier icon: Garfield the Cat. The original “grumpy cat,” who loves lasagna and lounging around as much as he loves terrorizing Odie the dog, was created by Indiana’s own Jim Davis, a native of Marion and alumnus of Ball State University.

I actually met Jim Davis when the Garfield comic strip was barely past its “kitten” years and I was attending college. Davis was living and drawing near the Ball State campus.

I met with him about speaking at a meeting I was organizing. The event, held at the Teacher’s College building, was well-attended and featured Davis, with flip chart paper and Sharpie in hand, deftly sketching the finicky feline and talking about his cartooning career. Little did those of us in attendance know that just a few years later, Garfield would have his own TV special, be featured in a series of books, and even have his own iconic plush toy that millions of fans suction-cupped to car windows in the 1980s.

Garfield’s premiere appearance in a comic strip was June 19, 1978. Though a 40-year-old cat would be pushing 200 years old in human years, in his fourth decade, Garfield is as spry and relevant as the day he was first drawn.

And he still has a huge fan base — and not just in Indiana or the U.S. In Australia, “Garfield: A Musical with Cattitude” recently completed a 10-day run to celebrate its star’s birthday.

And Singapore of all places will host a 40th Anniversary Carnival to honor Garfield June 8-10, complete with games, meet-andgreets, photo booths and limited edition merchandise.

Happy Birthday, Garfield! And to think I knew you when!

VOLUME 67 • NUMBER 12 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: September issue — “Heirloom” recipes (that have been in the family for ages): deadline June 11. October — Pizza recipes: July 16. If we publish your recipe on our food page, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Reader Submissions page: September — “Heirloom” photos

(Your personal photos from “the good old days”): deadline June 11. October issue — Photos of your favorite carved pumpkins: deadline July 16.

Giveaway: We’re giving away to a randomly selected entrant an overnight stay from French Lick Resorts, our Best of Indiana Girls’ Weekend Getaway winner. See page 20 for details about French Lick. To enter, send us your contact information along with the name of your co-op. Put “June Giveaway” in the title. The deadline to submit your entry is June 15.

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

entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website ElectricConsumer.org; email ec@ElectricConsumer.org; or send to Electric Consumer, PO Box 24517, Indianapolis, IN 46224.

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.

JUNE 2018

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contents

JUNE

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

10 ENERGY 12 INSIGHTS 14 PRODUCT PICKS Summer is a go-go-go time.

Here are ways to take your electronics with you.

food

16 INDIANA EATS Corndance Tavern in Mishawaka is a farm-totable twist on fine dining.

means to rural Hoosiers.

26 EVENTS CALENDAR

19 COVER STORY Readers share more of their favorite things in our annual “Best of Indiana” survey.

Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/Electriconsumer

28 OUTDOORS 29 SAFETY Share electric rules with kids (not in all editions).

feature

30 BACKYARD (not in all editions) 32 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS 33 PROFILE Though he’s not made a bucket since 1992, legendary basketball star Larry Bird remains close to Hoosier hoops … and the hearts of our readers.

On the Cover The roar of 350,000 fans can’t compete with the roar of 33 race cars burning down

Find us on Pinterest www.pinterest.com/Electriconsumer

the front straightaway at 230 mph.

Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/ElectricConsumer

Spectacle in Racing” — the Indianapolis 500

Electric Consumer readers said the “Greatest — is still our state’s best claim to fame.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY

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cover story 22 FEATURE Sen. Todd Young and an FCC commissioner see firsthand what broadband

17 FOOD Strawberry recipes — a sweet taste of June.

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ElectricConsumer

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JUNE 2018

co-op news

Graduations & transitions www.kremc.com CONTACT US Local: 574-267-6331 Toll-Free: 800-790-REMC EMAIL mail@kremc.com

As graduation open house invitations arrive at my house, I can’t help but ponder what these students will be doing next in life.

I’m a member of the Kosciusko Economic Development board of directors, and we regularly talk about workforce development and the many open positions at local companies just waiting to be filled with younger workers. We discuss training options and educational opportunities to let students know that they don’t have to leave our

OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday-Friday

community to land an impressive career complete with a salary that could exceed

ADDRESS 370 S. 250 E., Warsaw, IN 46582

In the electric cooperative world, we face similar issues. Current personnel in a variety

SERVICE INTERRUPTIONS To report a service interruption after hours, please call 267-6331 or 800-790-REMC.

the guard.” We’re partnering with state and national organizations to educate students

their expectations.

of positions will retire within the next 10 years. We’re preparing for this “changing of about cooperative careers.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS William Stump Jr., Chairman

Our industry has gotten so sophisticated that years of training — both formal and

Dan Tucker, Vice Chairman

service representative. Co-ops offer careers in many specializations,

on-the-job — are required to pursue a career as a lineman or member

John Hand, Secretary/Treasurer

including engineering, information technology, accounting, and

Kim Buhrt

marketing. If a prospective job candidate has a positive, custom-

Terry Bouse Tony Fleming Pam Messmore

er-focused attitude, most co-ops will provide the necessary training to help the candidate “grow” into a position.

Steve Miner

During this season of graduations and transitions, I wish

Rick Parker

our community’s high school graduates all the best as they pursue their hopes and dreams. I hope they realize as they

Laundry suggestion!

Use rubber or wool dryer balls, which help separate clothing in the cycle, providing better airflow and a shorter drying time. Wool dryer balls can help absorb moisture, which also reduces drying time.

meet their career goals, they can stay close to home — maybe even at the REMC!

BRUCE GOSLEE President and CEO

— U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

Use your Co-op Connections Card to save at local businesses Lake City Honda Kawasaki in Warsaw $5 off oil change, $10 off service of $100, $20 off service of $250

Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/kosciuskoremc Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/kosciuskoremc

KREMC rates and rebates RATES

REBATES

Residential and farm service Service charge ............................$24.50 per month Kilowatt-hour (kWh) charge ......@$.0922 per kWh Tracker charge..........................$-.001435 per kWh

Electric water heaters 50 gallons or larger: • Gas to electric replacement — $125 • New construction water heater — $125 • Second water heater — $50 • Geothermal desuperheater — $50

Outdoor Lights* 40w LED........................................$8.75 per month 70w LED......................................$12.25 per month

HVAC: • Geothermal system installation — $250 • Air-source heat pump system — $150 • Programmable thermostat — up to $25 Visit www.kremc.com for complete guidelines and restrictions. Additional rebates can be found at powermoves.com.

JUNE 2018

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co-op news

Summer Energy-Saving Tips Costs associated with cooling your home can make up a large portion of your summer electric bills. Stay cool and save money with these energy efficiency tips!

NO-COST TIPS Close blinds and drapes during the day to keep heat out.

78

Set your thermostat to 78 degrees when you are home. Set it to a higher temperature when you’re away.

Turn off lights and ceiling fans when you leave a room.

LOW-COST TIPS Plant trees and shrubs to shade the exterior of your home.

Replace disposable air filters (or clean permanent filters) once a month to maximize efficiency.

Use solar lighting to brighten up your outdoor space. Solar lights are easy to install, low maintenance and provide free electricity.

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JUNE 2018

outside Electrical safety

The chilly days are officially gone, and we’re finally seeing the sun on a regular basis. What better way to transition from spring to summer than by spending time outdoors? KREMC reminds you that electrical hazards are not only present indoors; they can also occur outside.

When working outside, take a moment to look around you. Look up and down when you begin your next outdoor DIY project. When you look up, you may spy power lines close by. Always keep yourself and equipment at least 10 feet away; electricity can jump to nearby objects, like your ladder, shovel or hose. When looking down, you may not see anything, but there could be dangers lurking underground. That’s why it’s always important to call 8-1-1 before you dig. A trained professional will locate and mark underground facilities, helping you avoid any hidden electrical dangers.

When starting a project that requires power tools, always ensure your outdoor outlets are up to standards. Make sure you have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) installed, which automatically cut power when a plugged item comes in contact with water. If you’re using an extension cord, do not use it unless it is labeled “for outdoor use.”

Operating power tools outdoors comes with a few guidelines that should be followed during and after use. These guidelines include: • Inspect the tool before and after each use.

• Replace or repair worn or defective equipment immediately.

• Keep the tool and the area you’re working on clean to avoid fire hazards, and always store tools in a dry place.

• Never use electric tools or mowers in wet areas.

Electricity is a powerful tool, but it can also be lethal. Share these tips with your friends and family and remind them that electrical safety isn’t just inside the home but outside, too.

FLIP TO PAGES 8 & 29 FOR MORE SAFETY TIPS.

co-op news

Avoid the big green box Please stay away from pad-mounted transformers (the big green box). While safe, they are not meant for touching, climbing or playing. Pad-mounted transformers carry high voltages of electricity that serve many homes in our communities.

Never touch, climb or play on pad-mounted

Keep areas surrounding the pad-mounted

transformers. Never put fingers, sticks or other

transformer clear so that workers can safely

objects through cracks in the transformer.

maintain transformers as needed. Keep shrubs and structures at least 10 feet away from the transformer doors and 4 feet away from the sides.

10 feet 4 feet

Never dig near a pad-mounted transformer.

Report problems. If you notice anything amiss, like

They are surrounded by underground cables.

an unlocked transformer or one that has been

Hitting the cable could result in electrical shock

damaged, please contact us immediately.

or disruption of service. ALWAYS DIAL 8-1-1 BEFORE YOU DIG.

JUNE 2018

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co-op news

Electrical safety:

THINK OUTSIDE THE HOME Dusting off outdoor cleaning tools and getting ready to give some much-needed TLC to your home and yard? Learn how to stay electrically safe outdoors.

POWER UP SAFELY WITH EXTENSION CORDS • When outdoors, use only those extension cords rated for outdoor use. They are designed to resist outdoor wear and conditions.

• Check the power capacity of your cord to ensure it’s the same or greater than the item you’re planning to plug in. Don’t make do with a lower-capacity cord.

For electric power tools, be sure to use a heavy-duty extension cord.

• Don’t string multiple extension cords together. Not only is it unsafe, but it will also reduce their power capacity and your electronic tools or gadgets won’t work properly.

• Plug your grounded outdoor extension cord into a ground fault circuit interrupter-protected (GFCI) electrical outlet to avoid shock or electrocution.

• Don’t use outdoor extension cords as long-term power sources. The longer they’re left out, the more risk there is of damage or wear.

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JUNE 2018

g n i h t u e l s y g Ener energy

WHAT A HOME ENERGY AUDIT CAN REVEAL

Spending a few hundred dollars on

and high-tech tools to provide a thorough

but there are usually larger and less

an energy audit now could save you

report of your home’s challenges and

obvious sources. A blower door test

thousands of dollars over time.

opportunities. A professional audit

measures how airtight your home is

can range from a quick, visual walk-

and identifies where the air leaks are.

A home energy audit is a detailed assessment of your home that can give you a roadmap for future energy-related investments: • What efficiency investments will be

through to a more comprehensive, more informative — but more expensive —

• Duct blaster: Ducts move the warm and cool air around your home; duct

assessment.

testing can measure whether your

Energy audits require an examination of

ducts are leaking.

most effective in reducing your energy

the building envelope (attic, floor, and

• Thermographic imaging: This is one

bills?

exterior walls) and the energy systems

way to identify where more insulation

in the home, such as the water heater,

is needed. Infrared images show “cold”

air conditioner and furnace. Follow the

or “hot” spots in a home’s envelope.

auditor during the inspection, and ask

Identifying where more insulation is

questions so you can understand where

needed is a key component in energy

the problems are, what you can address

audits — too little insulation will make

yourself and where you may need further

you use more energy than needed.

professional help.

Adding more can provide a quick

• Why might some areas of your home be too hot or too cold at times?

• Would a new furnace, air conditioner and/or rooftop solar system be appropriate? If so, what size? And what complementary measures will help these large investments work most efficiently?

The auditor may analyze your recent

Online audit tools can give you a basic understanding of how your home compares to similar ones. However, a qualified and professional home energy auditor can use his or her experience

return on investment.

energy bills to determine what your

Following the assessment of your home,

energy is used for and if use has

the auditor will analyze the information

recently changed. Finally, the auditor will

and make recommendations on what

ask about the energy use behaviors of

systems could be upgraded or what

those who live in the home.

behavior changes you can make

For example, is someone home all day, or does everyone leave for work and school? A resident’s habits can make a big impact on the energy bill. If you go

to reduce energy use and improve comfort. If you follow your auditor’s recommendations, you could lower your energy bill 5 to 30 percent, or more!

from being a household with two working

Your electric co-op can help you get

adults to one with a new baby and an

started with your audit. Most co-ops offer

adult home most of the day, your energy

audits or will provide a list of qualified

use is going to go up.

energy auditors in the area. Being home

An auditor may do some or all of the following tests: • Blower door test: Windows are often the suspected cause for air leaks,

during the audit is a great opportunity to learn what makes your home tick and how you can make it even better.

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

On a warm day, an infrared sensor shows heat gain up to 98 F around poorly-insulated canned ceiling lights above (the red blobs on the sensor’s display). The temperature at the red laser point reads 82.2 F. FILE P H OTO ILLU STRATI O N BY RI CHARD G . BI EVER

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JUNE 2018

TECHNOLOGY SIMPLIFIED – BIGGER AND BETTER

Wow! A Simple to Use Computer Designed Especially for Seniors!

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Have you ever said to yourself “I’d love to get a computer, if only I could figure out how to use it.” Well, you’re not alone. Computers were supposed to make our lives simpler, but they’ve gotten so complicated that they are not worth the trouble. With all of the “pointing and clicking” and “dragging and dropping” you’re lucky if you can figure out where you are. Plus, you are constantly worrying about viruses and freeze-ups. If this sounds familiar, we have great news for you. There is finally a computer that’s designed for simplicity and ease of use. It’s the WOW Computer, and it was designed with you in mind. This computer is easy-to-use, worry-free and literally

puts the world at your fingertips.

From the moment you open the box, you’ll realize how different the WOW Computer is. The components are all connected; all you do is plug it into an outlet and your high-speed Internet connection. Then you’ll see the screen – it’s now 22 inches. This is a completely new touch screen system, without the cluttered look of the normal computer screen. The “buttons” on the screen are easy to see and easy to understand. All you do is touch one of them, from the Web, Email, Calendar to Games– you name it… and a new screen opens up. It’s so easy to use you won’t have to ask your children or grandchildren for help. Until now, the very people who could benefit most from E-mail and the Internet are the ones that have had the hardest time accessing it. Now, thanks to the WOW Computer, countless older Americans are discovering the

wonderful world of the Internet every day. Isn’t it time you took part? Call now, and you’ll find out why tens of thousands of satisfied seniors are now enjoying their WOW Computers, emailing their grandchildren, and experiencing everything the Internet has to offer. Call today!

• Send & Receive Emails • Have video chats with family and friends • Surf the Internet: Get current weather and news • Play games Online: Hundreds to choose from!

Call now toll free and find out how you can get the new WOW! Computer.

Mention promotional code 109265 for special introductory pricing.

1-888-864-0526 © 2018 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

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“I love this computer! It is easy to read and to use! I get photo updates from my children and grandchildren all the time.”

– Janet F.

insights

Electric Consumer

RE LO CATES OFFIC ES

Effective June 4, Electric Consumer has a new home base. The electric cooperative magazine, along with its publisher, Indiana Electric Cooperatives, is now located on Indianapolis’ northeast side near the Keystone at the Crossing shopping complex.

Search on for historic farm buildings AWARD TO BE PRESENTED AT STATE FAIR Does your farm property include a

The award winner will receive an

historic farmhouse, barn, agricultural

outdoor marker, a vehicle pass to

outbuilding or landscape element? If

the Indiana State Fair, and overnight

so, consider applying for the 2018 John

accommodations in Indianapolis for the

Arnold Award for Rural Preservation. The

formal presentation.

award, to be presented at the Indiana State Fair by Indiana Landmarks and the Indiana Farm Bureau, recognizes the

The magazine, which will begin its

preservation and continued agricultural

68th year of publication next month,

use of historic farm buildings in Indiana.

was headquartered on the westside of Indianapolis since 1974. Prior to that, its offices were in downtown Indianapolis.

Electric Consumer is mailed out to consumers of 28 electric cooperatives.

Over 275,000 copies of the magazine are distributed each month. Indiana Electric Cooperatives is the service association for 38 member-owned electric cooperatives throughout the state.

The new address is 8888 Keystone Ave., Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240. You

Indiana Landmarks named the award in memory of John Arnold (1955-1991), a Rush County farmer who successfully combined progressive architectural practices with a deep respect for the

Anyone, including farm owners, can

natural and historic features of the rural

submit a nomination for the award. The

landscape. The John Arnold Award

nomination asks for:

honors those who share a similar

• A brief history of the farm and a description of its significant historic structures and features.

• A description of how the farm’s

commitment to preserving the landmarks and landscape of rural Indiana.

The award’s nomination form is available at bit.ly/ArnoldAward18 or by contacting

historic agricultural structures

Tommy Kleckner at Indiana Landmarks

are used in day-to-day farming

at 812-232-4534 or tkleckner@

operations, and how they have been

indianalandmarks.org. Deadline for

preserved or adapted.

nominations is June 15 at 5 p.m.

• High-res digital photographs of

can continue to email Electric Consumer

the farm and its preserved historic

staff at ec@electricconsumer.org.

features.

New Indiana school focuses on agricultural training Online students in Indiana are about to get their hands dirty. Indiana Agriculture & Technology School (IATS) is a new tuition-free charter school that couples online learning with labs and project-based activities down on the farm.

Enrollment is now open to Indiana residents, grades 7-12. Online coursework is offered for Core 40, Core 40 Honors, and Core 40 Technical Honors diploma programs. AP opportunities are also provided. Enrollment is capped at 160 students per grade level.

In addition to coursework, on-campus lab work will be offered at the school’s 600+ acre farm in Morgan County. The school is also working to establish a network of corporate and farming partners throughout the state to provide student internships and jobs.

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To learn more about Indiana Agriculture & Technology School, visit www.indiana.ag.

Classes start July 30.

product picks

Takin’ it with you For most people, summer is go-go-go time. And when you’re on the move, you need electronics that will move with

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you. Here are a few that may

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POWER TO GO When stormy weather is on the horizon or hits, grab the Best Emergency Radio/ Charger. Get NOAA alerts, listen to the radio and charge your devices as you weather the storm. It’s a powerful flashlight, too. $100.

800-321-1484; hammacher.com

JUNE 2018

BY JAYNE CANNON

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make your days a bit sunnier.

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TALKING DIRTY

PARLEZ-VOUS?

You take your phone everywhere ... which means it picks up grime and germs. Clean it up with the PhoneSoap Smartphone Sanitizer.

Insert phone, close the lid and in about 10 minutes, your device is germ-free and ready for duty. $60.

888-365-0056; uncommongoods.com

No matter where you roam, you’ll speak the local language with the Live Conversation Speaking Translator.

The handheld device translates your words into any of 12 languages or will translate what’s said to you into English. $350.

800-321-1484; hammacher.com

ROLL WITH MUSIC

LIGHT READING

THINLY SLICED

It’s not a day at the beach without your playlists, but why risk turning your smartphone into a sandy, soggy mess?

Enter the Drifter Action Speaker. Download your favorites and jam for eight hours on a single charge. $200.

888-365-0056; uncommongoods.com

You love to read at the beach, beside the pool or in the tub, but books get heavy — especially when waterlogged!

Take your library with you on the Kindle Oasis that will let you listen to books as well as read them. And it’s waterproof. From $250.

888-280-4331; amazon.com

Apple’s mini 4 is the slimmest iPad yet, but it has a girth of features: a crisp, 7.9-inch Retina Display; 8MP camera; 1080p HD video recording; and a speedy A8 processor.

It’s your perfectly portable digital media center. From $399.

800-692–7753; apple.com

TAVERN TAKES FINE DINING UP A NOTCH Looking for a creative twist to a fine dining experience? Corndance Tavern in Mishawaka, a farm-to-table favorite of foodies in northern Indiana, is renowned not only for specialities like bison and elote corn (fire roasted with lime juice, mayo, ancho chile, cilantro and cotija cheese) but for its even more unusual fare.

Take the restaurant’s signature dish: the aptly named “Sword of John Adams.”

An ample selection of steak, chicken, sausages or prawns (choice of meats varies) is impressively skewered on, yes, a sword, and presented to the, hopefully, hungry diner with steakhouse sides.

Unusual culinary presentations are the norm at Corndance. Lobster and Shrimp Rigatoni is served in a collectible mason jar and the popular Birramisu dessert, a unique take on tiramisu, is prepared and served in a beer can.

Corndance Tavern is just one of owner George Pesek’s forays into food — and drink. Corndance — named for the region’s native Potawatomi Indians’ rituals to thank their gods for bountiful harvests — is the dinnertime dining option featuring an extensive menu of dry-aged meats, some seafood, sausages and even frankfurters. Bourbon and Butcher, a combo butcher shop/informal eatery is open from 11 am-3 pm. Pesek’s Evil Czech Brewery serves up innovative craft beers along with upscale bar food from

Corndance Tavern

mid-day to late evening. (With names like “Vladimir Poutine” and the “Fungus Amongus” burger noted on the menu,

4725 Grape Road

Mishawaka, Indiana

who wouldn’t be intrigued with the Evil

574-217-7584

Czech’s offerings?) For those wanting to take Corndance brats, burgers, dogs

Hours

or sausages with them during tailgating

Mon.-Sat.: 5-10 pm Sun.: 5-9 pm

season, they can order online at www.

Website

corndance.com/tailgate-packages/

corndance.com

PHO TO CO URTESY O F CO RNDANCE TAVERN

food Grab some some fresh or frozen strawberries to prepare these readers’ recipes.

Strawberry SWEETS

Easy Strawberry Soup

by Eileen Fisse, Greensburg 2 cups vanilla yogurt ½ cup orange juice 8 cups fresh, sliced strawberries ½ cup sugar In a blender, combine yogurt, juice, strawberries and sugar in batches. Cover and process until smooth. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. To serve, you can garnish with fresh strawberry slices and a spoonful of yogurt.

(We garnished with mint leaves.)

Cook’s notes: It’s an easy, quick soup in the hot summertime! I won first place in the soup class at our county fair last year.

Grandma Lewis’ Baked Strawberry Pie

by Lois Lewis, Henryville 1½ lbs. (24-oz. frozen) strawberries ½ to ¾ cup sugar 2-4 T. cornstarch (heaping scoops) 2 unbaked pie crusts (1 for top) Place 1 pie crust in pie plate. Cook strawberries, sugar and cornstarch until it thickens like syrup. Pour into unbaked pie shell. Cover with top crust.

Pinch sides and slit top.

Bake at 360 F for approximately 50–60 minutes.

Cook’s notes: This recipe was passed down to me from my mother-in-law several years ago. All the family requests it at gatherings. I didn’t get one made this year for Christmas, and I was informed it was missing.

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

Baskin-Robbins Cake

by Shirley Bickel, Freedom CRUST: 1½ cups flour ¼ cup powdered sugar Dash of salt ¾ cup butter or margarine, softened ½ cup finely chopped pecans Combine flour, ¼ cup powdered sugar and a dash of salt. Cut in butter or margarine until crumbly. Stir in pecans. Pat mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Bake at 375 F for 1012 minutes or until light brown. Cool completely.

FILLING: 2 (10-oz.) bags frozen strawberries, thawed ½ cup strawberry juice 1 envelope unflavored gelatin 2 (8-oz.) packages cream cheese, softened 1 cup powdered sugar 1 (8-oz.) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed Thaw strawberries. Remove ½ cup juice; place in a small saucepan.

Marshmallow Strawberry Cake

Sprinkle gelatin over juice. Heat over

by Kerri Ladeburg, Romney

low heat to melt gelatin. Pour over strawberries. Stir and set aside.

2 cups mini marshmallows

In a small bowl, mix thawed

Beat softened cream cheese and

2 (10-oz.) packages

strawberries and gelatin together;

frozen strawberries

set aside.

powdered sugar until fluffy. By hand, stir in strawberry mixture and thawed whipped topping, combining well.

Pour into cooled crust and freeze.

Remove from freezer and let rest 20-30 minutes before serving. Cut in squares. Top with additional whipped topping and fresh strawberries, if desired.

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1 (3-oz.) box strawberry gelatin 1 box yellow cake mix, plus required ingredients Grease a 9x13 inch pan. Spread 2

Mix cake as directed. Then, pour over marshmallows. Add strawberries and gelatin mixture over cake batter.

cups mini marshmallows in bottom

Bake at 350 F for 45–50 minutes.

of pan.

Marshmallows will come to the top to form a crust. Serve warm or cold.

T he Best

of Indiana Readers rave about their faves

BY EMI LY SC H ILLING

W

ith summer just a few weeks away, now’s the perfect time to add new places to your Hoosier bucket lists.

Electric Consumer readers have been providing their picks of places to check out since we announced in March that our “Readers’ Choice Awards” would be back.

After sharing their favorites in four categories — Best Fried Chicken, Best Antique Store, Best Girls’ Getaway and Best Guys’ Getaway — they cast their votes in the most competitive categories: Famous Hoosier and Claim to Fame (which could literally be anything: what defines being a Hoosier, what makes our state unique, a renowned place or event, etc.).

Did your favorites match up to other readers’ picks? Turn the page to see what ... or who ... has been chosen as this year’s Best of Indiana.

JUNE 2018

19

BEST ANTIQUE STORE BEST FRIED CHICKEN

The Chicken House 7180 Highway 111 Sellersburg, Indiana 47172 812-246-9485 thechickenhouseonline.com The Chicken House’s no-nonsense, no-frills name pretty much sums up why folks flock to this old white building off St. Joe’s Road in Sellersburg: its fried chicken.

Oh, there’s other stuff on the menu — pork chops, steak, ham, oysters, fish and shrimp — but chicken

Red Barn Antique Mall

add to your collection: furniture, quilts,

215 Highway 62 W. Corydon, IN 47112 812-738-6000 www.redbarnantiquemall.com

embroidered linens, glassware, books,

The painted signage on the Red Barn

and Kentucky Derby glasses will want to

Antique Mall mimics those Mail Pouch

check out the selection at the Red Barn.

Tobacco barns of yesteryear— right down

Paintings and handcrafted items from

to the tag line: “Treat Yourself to the Best.”

local artisans are also available at the mall.

baskets, jewelry and so much more, all on three floors.

Collectors of regional goodies like Corydon’s own Zimmerman Art Glass, M.A. Hadley pottery, Louisville Stoneware

Red Barn is open seven days a week.

The best is, in fact, what antique lovers will find in this huge browsers’

Keep an eye out for the store’s lovable

paradise on Highway 62 in Corydon.

kitty mascot who can usually be found

No matter what you’re searching for,

nestled on a quilt or blanket, waiting to

there will surely be something you can

be petted.

is the star attraction (although the homemade yeast rolls are fan favorites in their supporting roles).

Restaurant regulars liken this home-cooking haven to the “Cheers” bar from the TV show “where everybody knows your name.” As that family-friendly vibe suggests, there’s no need to get fancied-up before heading to dinner at The Chicken House. Just bring an “A game” appetite.

The generous dinners include salad, potato, two veggies and a roll.

Win a night at French Lick Electric Consumer is giving away an overnight stay at the French Lick Springs Hotel.

Deadline to enter is June 15.

Please see page 5 for details.

Giveaway GETAWAY

Since everything is cooked to

patrons, enjoy an ice cold beer, and

French Lick Resorts

get psyched up for some crispy, tender

www.visitFrenchLickWestBaden.com

chicken, just like Electric Consumer readers like it. And, if you like a deal,

Last year’s Readers’ Choice for Best

bring a hungry friend with you to

Weekend Getaway is this year’s pick for

dinner. The Chicken House has a

Best Getaway for gal pals.

“Buy one, get one half off” special on

The historic and luxurious French

chicken dinners, Monday-Thursday

Lick Resorts offer everything a girl could

from 4-7:30 pm and Friday-Saturday,

want: beautiful, comfortable rooms; fine

4-9 pm.

food; activities like golf and gambling; and two full-service spas at its two hotels:

20

JUNE 2018

PHO TO CO URTESY O F FRENCH LI CK RE S O RTS

BEST GIRLS’ GETAWAY

order, expect a bit of a wait. You’ll have plenty of time to chat with other

The Relaxation Room at the French Lick Springs Hotel.

the West Baden Springs Hotel and the French Lick Springs Hotel. Those in need of intensive pampering can choose from an extensive menu of spa services like facials, manicures, pedicures, scrubs, wraps, massages and French Lick’s famous mineral baths.

Once you’re sufficiently destressed, travel by trolley between hotels or just wander the grounds and take in the scenery. Or, visit the area’s quaint shops, antique stores and wineries.

FAMOUS HOOSIER

Larry Bird “Larry Legend” was the overwhelming choice for favorite Famous Hoosier, surpassing Vice President Mike Pence, John Mellencamp and James Whitcomb Riley.

To learn more about Larry Bird, please turn to our Profile page — PHO TO S BY I STO CK/ G ETTY I M AG ES PLUS

BEST GUYS’ GETAWAY

Indiana lakes

bluegill and crappie fishing; and Cecil

https://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3077.htm You can lead a guy to water ... and when you do, according to Electric Consumer readers, he’ll be sure to cast his fishing pole.

Our readers’ top pick for a guys’ trip was to one of Indiana’s many lakes to go fishing. Patoka Lake, spread across Dubois, Crawford and Orange counties in southern Indiana, was the favorite fishing spot. Indiana’s second largest lake at 8,800 acres is a prime spot to catch bass, stripers, sunfish, catfish and crappie.

Lake Monroe, the state’s largest lake, is home to carp, catfish, bass, crappie and walleye; West Boggs Lake, good for largemouth bass, bream,

M. Harden Lake (Raccoon Lake), home to largemouth, smallmouth and striped bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, walleye and white bass, also received votes.

For those who have yet to catch the fishing bug, take advantage of two “Free Fishing Days” this month (June 2-3) when you don’t need a fishing license or trout/salmon stamp to fish the state’s public waters. For information on purchasing a fishing license, visit https://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/52330.htm or call 317-232-4200.

By the way, quite a few readers cast votes for French Lick Resorts, which was named Best Girls’ Getaway. It just goes to prove, what’s good for the goose is good for the gander!

CLAIM TO FAME

Indianapolis 500 Indianapolis Motor Speedway 4790 W. 16th St. Indianapolis, IN 46222 317-492-8500 www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com Electric Consumer readers love the Hoosier state for so many reasons. Some liked the friendly people. Others enjoyed the State Fair or high school basketball.

Farmers markets, community festivals, and the beautiful scenery were all cited for making our state special.

But most folks noted that the quintessential Hoosier experience

happens each year on the day before Memorial Day on a 2.5 mile racetrack in Speedway, Indiana. The Indianapolis 500, an internationally known tradition of fast cars, famed drivers, pit stops and ladies and gentlemen starting their engines was the readers’ choice for Indiana’s claim to fame.

The 500, which just celebrated its 102nd running on May 27, draws approximately 300,000 race fans each year to the track.

Billed and (trademarked) as “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” it is the largest single-day sporting event in the world. Not only that, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the world’s largest

coincidentally but appropriately — page number 33.

‘Best of INDIANA’ at a GLANCE 1 BEST FRIED CHICKEN: The Chicken House, Sellersburg Close second: Stone’s Family Restaurant, Milhousen

4

5

4 2 BEST ANTIQUE 4 3 STORE: 1 4 2 Red Barn Antique Mall, Corydon Close second: Picker’s Paradise, Columbus 3 BEST GIRLS’ GETAWAY: French Lick Resorts (includes both the historic French Lick Springs and West Baden Springs hotels) 4 BEST GUYS’ GETAWAY: Indiana lakes — Monroe, Patoka, West Boggs and Harden (Raccoon) 5 BEST INDIANA CLAIM TO FAME: Indianapolis 500 6 BEST FAMOUS HOOSIER: Larry Bird

$50 WINNERS Electric Consumer thanks all who took time to offer opinions by filling out and mailing in the published ballot or by going online. The three ballots randomly drawn for $50 participation prizes belonged to: • Brandi Summers, Attica, member of Tipmont REMC; • Amy Simpson, Tell City, member of Southern Indiana Power; • Ross Carothers, Elizabethtown, member of Bartholomew County REMC.

sporting facility in terms of capacity.

JUNE 2018

21

legislative

d e t c e n n Co Hometown Living in a

Rural Hoosiers say access to broadband is a vital thread to survival and growth S T ORY A ND P HO T O S

BY RIC H A RD G . B IE V E R

W

hen Chris Muegge went off to college in 2007, he thought his days working with his dad

on the family farm were done.

Leveraging his education in animal/

feedlot nutrition from Oklahoma State University and then Purdue to come back to his parents’ 1,200-acre grain and livestock farm in southeast Hancock County seemed economically improbable. “I still wanted to be able to work on the farm,” he said. “But just like any kids my age coming out of college, it’s really hard to go back to the farm.

You’ve got to have another source of income.”

Fortunately, their electric and

22

JUNE 2018

telecommunications cooperative,

about herds, weight gain and nutrition

NineStar Connect, had run high-speed

and assess videos sent to him digitally.

broadband fiber optic lines into the

“We can be out in the shop working

rural countryside and past their farm a

on a piece of equipment,” Chris said. “If

few years earlier. The Greenfield-based

I get an email from someone that says,

cooperative, which was created in 2011

‘Hey, these cattle aren’t performing very

by the unique consolidation of the area’s

well.’ I may say, ‘Send me a picture of

REMC and telephone co-op, serves their

them. Send me a video.’

farm and home.

Today, Chris, who turns 30 this month, still assists his dad on the farm, while pursuing his own career via high-

“I can start my computer while I’m changing a tire or swapping out disk blades.”

Chris can diagnose problems or

speed internet as a nutritionist for Great

recommend adjustments in the feed to

Plains Livestock Consulting, based in

help the client ... “and I’m still able to be

tiny Eagle, Nebraska.

involved on the farm,” he said.

The speedy broadband is crucial; he

“We were just tickled to death out

connects daily with clients at farms and

here when NineStar brought broadband

mills from New Mexico to Minnesota. He

fiber optics. It made a difference,” said

even has a client in Costa Rica. He needs

Linda Muegge, Chris’ mother. “All of our

to be able to quickly access spreadsheets

kids have had opportunities to do other

Chris Muegge, right, talks about his experiences coming home to work on his family’s rural southeast Hancock County farm while maintaining his consulting job in animal nutrition that has clients as far away at Costa Rica. Sitting with him for the discussion on how fiber optic connectivity has made his dual roles possible are, from left, Brendan Carr, a member of the Federal Communications Commission; Indiana Sen. Todd Young; Michael Burrow, CEO of NineStar Connect, Muegge’s local electric and telecom cooperative that installed the fiber; and his mother, Linda, who also spoke about the benefits high-speed broadband has brought to their farm and to the Hancock County community at large.

Broadband in Indiana

BY THE NUMBERS

there that we can access,” Chris Muegge told Young and Carr when it comes to improving most any aspect of agriculture and agribusiness. “It’s just having the ability to access it.”

Young and Carr began the day at the Hancock Wellness Center in things — live out of state and this or that

McCordsville with a demonstration of

— and they’ve all chosen to be here.”

how high-speed fiber is essential in

Sitting across the kitchen table as

another field of rural health and wellness.

the Muegges talked about what high-

This one had nothing to do with

speed fiber has meant to the family

livestock; rather, it has everything to do

and their farm on this particular day in

with the lives of rural residents.

May were Indiana Sen. Todd Young and

Dr. Michael Fletcher, chief medical

Brendan Carr, a member of the Federal

officer at Hancock Regional Hospital,

Communications Commission. Joining

demonstrated how he and a neurologist

them was Michael Burrow, CEO of

at the Greenfield-based hospital, could

NineStar Connect.

link up in real time using GoToMeeting

The Muegge farm was a stop for Young and Carr as they toured Indiana early last month to see firsthand how

available.

From McCordsville, Fletcher was able to discuss CT scan results and

and how Washington, D.C., can ensure

treatment options. Though they were

rural Hoosiers receive a fair share when

less than 20 miles from one another in

it comes to the investment in broadband

this case, telemedicine via high-speed

infrastructure and connectivity.

internet allows the same virtual faceto-face discussions between a family

day, the senator and the commissioner

physician and a medical specialist

were told that the advances in

looking at the same test results at the

technology in agriculture, medicine

same time even when they may be

and workforce development do no good

hundreds or thousands of miles apart.

unless everyday Hoosiers — including

That’s critical in the medically under-

rural Hoosiers — are able to access that

served rural areas that have only become

technology via the internet. The day-

more isolated from quality health care

long trip also included stops at Ivy Tech

even as their population ages.

in Indianapolis and Purdue University in

electric cooperatives in Indiana now offer or are about to offer high-speed internet services to their consumers.

software and the fiber NineStar made

technology is changing the landscape —

All along the “connectivity tour” that

5

Further, Fletcher said the virtual

59

out of Indiana’s 92 counties are expecting to see population losses over the next 35 years.

West Lafayette.

“There’s a lot of technology out

PLEASE TURN TO THE NEXT PAGE JUNE 2018

23

George Plisinski, manager of telecom operations at NineStar, right, shows Sen. Todd Young, left, and Brendan Carr, an FCC member, a fiber optic strand.

Plisinski demonstrated how the line is spliced together in the back of a van along a highway where crews were installing it underground.

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE two-way highway allows better communication between him and patients, especially those with transportation or physical mobility challenges.

“We want to make sure all Hoosiers, all Americans, regardless of their circumstances, including their geographic circumstances, have a fair shot at success,” Young said in opening remarks during the visit.

“Though I am a conservative

“

sure all Hoosiers …

on their core business, they need to figure

regardless of their

services in rural areas,” he added.

circumstances, including their geographic

characterize myself as a Whig,” Young

fair shot at success.

internal improvements. And one of the essential roles of our federal government is to bind together different geographies by making critical investments so that our economy can grow and people can thrive.”

NineStar’s Burrow emphasized that

“If rural co-ops are going to be around and relevant and be able to deliver

circumstances, have a

that believed in the American system of

Burrow told Young and Carr.

We want to make

Republican, I also from time-to-time added. “A Whig is that now-defunct party

point, you almost get into a death spiral,”

”

SEN. TODD YOUNG

out a way to provide these much-needed A recent report by IU’s Kelley School of Business noted that between the aging population and outward migration, 59 of Indiana’s 92 counties are expected to see population losses over the next 35 years.

It’s a somber and sobering toll.

NineStar had a head start with broadband, given its unique pedigree as both an electric and telecom co-op. But three other Indiana REMCs — Jackson County, South Central Indiana, and Tipmont — have started or announced projects to bring high-speed internet to their consumers. A fourth is to announce its broadband plan early this month.

access to high-speed internet will be

As Young and Carr’s visit began

broadband infrastructure investment

crucial, too: for smart meters, smart

faces the same hurdles in rural areas

wrapping up, Linda Muegge, speaking

consumer appliances, real-time pricing

that electrification did 80 years ago.

for all rural communities, left the two

and other innovations. But rural areas

“We know that fiber optic connects

with a plea for high-speed access to take

often lack the density — the people

rural communities and their residents

back to Washington. “You need to say,

— to spread the cost of infrastructure

and businesses to the greater world —

‘they need it,’” she told them. “There are

investment around. And areas without

allowing them to be able to compete

so many things it touches that it’s really

these engines and amenities of economic

and be a part of that larger global

important. There are so many good

growth, lose even more people. That

community,” he said.

things that it brings.”

forces businesses and industry to leave,

With the changing technology on the consumer end of the electric lines,

24

JUNE 2018

driving up the costs even more for all the services for those who remain. “At some

RICHARD G. BIEVER is senior editor of Electric Consumer.

calendar NORTHWEST

9

NATIONAL GET OUTDOORS DAY OPEN HOUSE, Chesterton (Porter), Dunes Learning Center. Join naturalists and National Park Service rangers for a day of guided activities and adventures.

Free. Online registration requested. 11 am-3 pm. 219-395-9555. duneslearningcenter.org

9

LIBRARY CONCERT SERIES, Monticello (White), MonticelloUnion Township Library. An evening with the Moon Cats band at Constitution Plaza. 6 pm. Free. 574-583-2665, ext.

3307. adult@monticello.lib. in.us. monticello.lib.in.us

23

ART IN THE STREET, Plymouth (Marshall), Downtown. Enjoy art, entertainment, kids’ activities, food and more. Free.

10 am-3 pm. 574-274-4376. shelleyheiden@heidencreative. com. heartlandartgallery.com

CENTRAL

1-2

BANKS OF THE WABASH FESTIVAL, Terre Haute (Vigo). Fairbanks Park. Live music, food, crafters, midway rides and games nightly. Free.

812-232-2727. terrehaute.in.gov/parks

1316

KNIGHTSTOWN JUBILEE DAYS, Knightstown (Henry), Town Square. Carnival rides, games, queen contest, parade, chamber fish wagon, and more. Rain or shine. Free. 800-668-1895. knightstownchamber.org

23

TENDERLOIN THROWDOWN, Greensburg (Decatur), Downtown Square. This food competition names the best pork tenderloin sandwich in the state. Four categories, craft beer, wine, kids’ fun, shopping. Free. 812-222-0037. mainstreetgreensburg.com.

SOUTHWEST

15

BRUTALLY HANDSOME, Mitchell (Lawrence), Mitchell Opera House.

Brutally Handsome is a group that celebrates the music of the Eagles.

7 pm. Tickets: $15, adults; $6, kids 12 and under. 812-849-4447. aprince@hoosieruplands.org. mitchelloperahouse.com

1516

FERDINAND HEIMATFEST, Ferdinand (Dubois), 18th Street Park. Live entertainment, kids area, food, games. 5K Walk/ Run. Admission charge. Fri: 5 pm-1 am, Sat: 8 am-1 am. $4 for beer garden. 812-6612711. nweyer1490@gmail.com. ferdinandheimatfest.com

26

JUNE 2018

2930

LIMESTONE HERITAGE FESTIVAL, Bedford (Lawrence), Downtown Square. Music, food, limestone carving exhibit, bike show, parade, fireworks and more. Free.

812-329-4221. downtown bedford.org

June NORTHEAST

1

CHAMBER CLASSIC GOLF OUTING, Portland (Jay), Portland Golf Club. Outing will feature scramble format and golf clinic.

Registration, 9 am. Shotgun start, 10 am. 260-726-4481. membership@ jaycountychamber.com. www.jaycountychamber.com

1922

44TH ANNUAL QUILT SHOW & SALE, Topeka (LaGrange), Eden Worship Center. One of the premier quilt shows in northeastern Indiana. 9 am-4 pm. Cost: $5. 260-4990149. edenwc@hotmail.com. edenworshipcenter.com/ quiltshow

20

WINE IN THE PINES & ANIMAL ART AUCTION, Albion (Noble), Black Pine Animal Sanctuary.

Adults-only evening with the animals. Explore, view animal artists, sample wines and appetizers. 5:30-9 pm. Cost: $40-$50. 260-636-7383. lori@ blackpine.org. blackpine.org

SOUTHEAST

13 PHOTO CREDIT: HAMILTON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

910

CAMPBELLSBURG COUNTRY FESTIVAL, Campbellsburg (Washington), Campbellsburg Park. Music, vendors, contests, truck and tractor pulls, parade, kids’ games and activities. Free. 812-896-7979. campbellsburgcountryfestival.com.

ART ON THE PARISH GREEN, New Albany (Floyd), Downtown.

Festival showcasing over 90 artists. Music, children’s art activities, food and more. Sat: 10 am-6 pm, Sun: 11:30-5 pm.

Free. 812-944-0413. info@ artontheparishgreen.com. artontheparishgreen.org.

2223

BLUEGRASS ON THE SQUARE, Corydon (Harrison), Downtown Square. Enjoy bluegrass music as Corydon comes alive this summer! Bring your lawn chairs or blanket. 4-8 pm. Free.

888-738-2137. thisisindiana. org

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.

JUNE 2018

27

Where asparagus once grew wild

outdoors

B Y JACK S PAU L D IN G

When one of us spied our prized quarry,

kle them with sea salt. About 15 minutes

O

we would holler … Mom would stop the

or so in the oven at 350 F produces an

old Ford, and we would scramble out of

amazing side dish for any meal.

ne of my fond experiences as a child came with the first warming days of spring. Prior

to cultivated side ditches, mowed fence rows and the liberal use of herbicides, wild asparagus proliferated in the side

the car and into the side ditch to gather the stalks. As the warm spring weather continued, the stalks of asparagus became more mature and taller.

ditches along the county roads. And it

At this point, we stopped using the par-

was free for the picking!

ing knife and opted to simply bend the

The sporadic patches took root from stray seeds dropped by birds feeding on the seeds from nearby gardens. Once sprouted, the hearty plant would mature

stalk to snap the top off. When the tops are snapped off like this, it guarantees a soft, chewable spear when the asparagus hits the plate.

and seed and produce more plants in a

On a good run, we might fill two large

growing cluster.

paper grocery bags with the succulent

I remember loading up with Mom and

stalks. What a haul!

my sister Mary in the old family station

Usually the spears were boiled in salted

wagon armed with paper grocery bags

water, drained and liberally coated

and paring knives.

with butter when prepared for the ta-

Once we were out of town, the hunt would begin. Mom would slowly idle the old Ford down the county roads at a

ble. Truth be known: As a boy, I appreciated the hunt a whole lot more than actually eating the asparagus.

snail’s pace while my sister and I stuck

A few years ago, I spotted a lone

our heads out of the car windows and

patch of the velvety looking ma-

scanned the ditches for the dark green

ture plants along a county road

spears of asparagus.

near home. I hadn’t seen any wild

“

On a good run, we might fill two large paper grocery bags with the succulent stalks.

What a haul!

28

JUNE 2018

”

asparagus in years. I made a mental note to come back the following spring to see if I could pick just a few spears.

The next year, I was disappointed to find even the last patch had disappeared under the onslaught of a tractor mounted mower.

My wife and I have a favorite recipe for our garden asparagus. We wash and dry the stalks, lay them on a cookie sheet, drizzle the stalks with a little virgin olive oil and sprin-

I can’t help but wonder, though, how wild asparagus would taste if fixed this way.

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

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

safety

Electrical rules TO SHARE WITH KIDS

IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO TEACH YOUR KIDS ABOUT DANGERS OF ELECTRICITY Born with a natural curiosity, children are always exploring, asking questions and trying new things to understand the world around them. Unfortunately, that curiosity can be dangerous – and even deadly – when it comes to electricity.

“There are 400 deaths and 4,400 injuries from electrical hazards each year,” said Tom VanParis, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives. “Education and adult supervision are the main ways to help reduce your child’s risk of an electrical accident.”

With summer break just beginning, children of all ages will spend the next few months entertaining themselves. Whether they are keeping cool inside or soaking up some vitamin D outside, they are bound to run into trouble. Your cooperative, though, wants to be sure they are safe from electrical hazards. Keep your children safe by teaching them the rules of outdoor and indoor electrical safety.

OUTDOOR ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES: • Do not climb trees near power lines or climb utility poles, transmission towers or fences around electrical substations.

• Keep electrical cords away from water.

• Never touch an electrical pole or wire that has fallen to the ground.

• Watch out for thunderstorms! If you

It is also important for children to know how to avoid electrical dangers, but also how to respond to an electrical injury. The most important rule is to never touch a victim who is still connected to a power source. The same current could travel to their bodies and injure

can hear thunder, you can be struck by

them as well. If they can,

lightning.

either unplug or turn off

INDOOR ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES: • Do not overload an extension cord with too many plugs.

• Teach older kids how to safely plug in and unplug cords.

• Remind children that water and electricity do not mix.

• For younger children, install safety caps on outlets.

Do you have young children at home? Install safety caps on outlets.

the switch to the power supply. Inform children to never touch a live wire, even if it does not look dangerous. Lastly, be sure they know how to call 911 in an emergency if they ever need help.

If you have questions about keeping your family safe from electrical hazards, contact your electric cooperative. Help keep your children safe, wherever they are, by applying a few safety rules to their summer routine.

JU NE 2 018

29

Top crop

Tomatoes: the apples of most eyes

by B. Rosie Lerner

M

ost gardeners would agree that tomatoes are the most popular crop for home growing. But

what gardeners can’t agree on is what tomato is considered “the best,” since taste is such a personal matter.

garden. Midseason is considered to be 66 to 80 days. Late types are those that need more than 80 days from transplanting.

Third, you can group tomatoes by the plant’s growth habit: determinate or indeterminate. Determinate plants tend to grow their foliage first, then set flowers that mature into fruit if pollination is

The diversity of cultivars available makes

successful. All of the fruit tend to ripen

it easy for anyone to grow tomatoes —

on a plant at about the same time. Inde-

even if all you have is a pot on the patio.

terminate tomatoes start out by growing

The Burpee Seed Company introduced

some foliage, then continue to produce

the first F1 hybrid tomato “Big Boy” in

foliage and flowers throughout the

1949. Since then, plant breeders have in-

gardening season. These plants will tend

troduced thousands of hybrid tomatoes.

to have tomato fruit in different stages

Modern hybrids bring disease resistance,

of maturity at any given time once they

cold tolerance, nematode resistance, and

start to set fruit.

hybrid vigor as well as a dazzling range of colors, shapes, and sizes.

More recent developments in tomato breeding have led to a wider array of fruit

There are several ways to classify the

colors. In addition to the standard red ripe

wide array of tomatoes that are so pop-

color, tomatoes can be creamy white, lime

ular among gardeners today. First, you

green, purple or nearly black. Pink and

can group them by fruit size and shape.

yellowish types have mistakenly been re-

From small to large, there are: currant,

ferred to as low-acid tomatoes, but in fact,

cherry/grape, salad/cocktail, plum, pear,

these types are just higher in sugar, which

standard slicing, and beefsteak types.

makes them taste less acidic.

Second, you can group tomatoes by the

All tomatoes are warm-season crops that

amount of time it takes for the plants to

thrive when soil temperature is at least 60

mature fruit for harvest. Seed packets will

F which meant this spring required extra

list the expected length of time to ma-

patience with late, cooler than usual soil

turity in number of days, but in general,

temperatures. But the old saying about

cultivars are classified as: early, midsea-

good things coming to those who wait is

son, or late-maturing. Early cultivars take

true for tomatoes — whichever cultivars

55 to 65 days from transplanting to the

and colors you choose to grow.

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JUNE 2018

Ask Rosie

P H OTO P R OV ID E D B Y R OSI E LERNER, PURDUE EXTENSI O N

Q: I have a

maple tree that has a rather large sucker at the bottom.

The diameter of the sucker is about 2 inches, and the tree trunk is 7 inches in diameter. I would like to know if it is OK to remove it?

J.M., Crown Point, Indiana

A: Some landscape plants produce

vigorous, upright stems that become troublesome, because they out-compete better-formed branches and shade out the rest of the plant. These remarkably fast-growing, upright stems are called “suckers” if they come from the root system.

The best time to try removing these suckers is late winter and early spring before the new growth begins. You’ll want to be careful to avoid injuring the main trunk when you cut. First, remove the top of the root sucker (this can be done in stages) to get the heavy weight off that stem. Then, make closer cuts further down to just above where you see the “V.” We also recommend that you pull the rock mulch away from the base of the tree and, if needed, remove any soil that is covering the root collar (the flare of the trunk at the bottom.)

(You can see an illustration of these recommendations on the annotated photo, courtesy of Purdue Urban Forestry Specialist Lindsey Purcell, with this column at ElectricConsumer.org.

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

PHO TO BY J. M

backyard

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New Arthritis Painkiller Works on Contact and Numbs the Pain in Minutes New cream works faster and is more targeted than oral medications. Key ingredients penetrate the skin within minutes to relieve joint arthritis pain.

Users report significant immediate relief.

By Robert Ward Associated Health Press BOSTON – Innovus Pharmaceuticals has introduced a new arthritis pain relief treatment that works in minutes.

Sold under the brand name Apeaz™, the new pain relief cream numbs the nerves right below the skin.

When applied to an arthritic joint, or a painful area on the body, it delivers immediate relief that lasts for hours and hours.

The powerful painkilling effect is created by the creams active ingredients, three special medical compounds.

Anesthetics are used in hospitals during surgery. They block nerve signals from the brain so that patients don’t feel pain and they work fast.

The anesthetic found in Apeaz™ is the strongest available without a prescription.

The cream form allows users to directly target their area of pain. It works where it is applied. The company says this is why the product is so effective and fast acting.

“Users can expect to start feeling relief immediately after applying,” explains Dr. Bassam Damaj, President of Innovus Pharmaceuticals.

“There will be a pleasant warming sensation that is followed by a cool, soothing one. This is how you know that the active ingredients have reached the affected joint and tissue.”

Those with terrible arthritis in their hands and fingers, love how easy Apeaz™ is to open.

The jar fits in the palm of the hand, which makes it much easier to use.

Instant Pain Relief Without a Prescription Many Apeaz™ users report significant improvements in daily aches and pain. Many more report increased flexibility and less stiffness. They are moving with less pain for the first time in years, like Henry Esber, an early user of Apeaz™.

“I’ve tried more pills than I can count.

I’ve also had a handful of cortisone shots.

Nothing is as effective as this product. With Apeaz™, I get relief right away. I rub a little on my hands. It keeps the pain away. It also prevents the pain from getting really bad. It’s completely changed my life.”

Apeaz™ is an FDA drug with approved claims for the pain relief of the following conditions: • Arthritis pain • Simple back pain • Strains • Sprains • Athletic injuries • Muscle stiffness/ pain • Wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, foot, muscle or joint pain

Works In Minutes

How It Works

For arthritis suffers, Apeaz offers impressive advantages over traditional medications. The most obvious is how quickly it relieves pain discomfort.

The cream contains the maximum approved OTC dose of a top anesthetic, which penetrates the skin in a matter of minutes to numb the area that’s in pain. This relief lasts for several hours.

Published pre-clinical animal studies have shown that the ingredients in Apeaz™ can also prevent further bone and cartilage destruction.

There are also no negative side effects like from oral medication. Apeaz™ delivers its ingredients through the skin. Oral medications are absorbed in the digestive tract. Overtime, the chemicals in pills can tear the delicate lining of the stomach, causing ulcers and bleeding.

When compared to other arthritis medications, Apeaz™ is a fraction of the cost.

At less than $2 a day, the cream quickly is becoming a household name.

Apeaz contains the highest, non-prescription OTC dose of a medical compound that fights pain on contact. When applied to the skin it goes to work within minutes by penetrating right to the source of your pain, numbing the nerve endings.

“This is why Apeaz™ is so effective for people with arthritis pain. It reduces pain while adding an additional potential layer of joint support,” explains Damaj.

™

™

A New Way to Treat Pain Although Dr. Damaj and his team say that their cream is the fastest and most effective way to relieve arthritis pain, they believe there is still a reason to take joint pills. The most effective are those which help to further lubricate, strengthen and support the joints.

That’s why every container of Apeaz™ comes with ArthriVarx™, a breakthrough supplement that’s taking on joint support in an entirely new way.

Apeaz™: Quick Acting Pain and Arthritis Cream is Now Available Without a Prescription

ArthriVarx™ works on your joints, making it the perfect companion to Apeaz™.

“ArthriVarx™ contains special compounds published to lubricate the joints and connective tissues that surrounds them. With daily use, they improve joint health and can give an extra cushion,” explains Dr. Damaj.

“When combined with Apeaz™, it becomes the perfect system to tackle arthritis. While the anesthetic component of Apeaz™ is working on the outside, relieving pain on contact, ArthriVarx™ is working on the inside, adding cushioning to the joints”’

A Powerful Combination For Arthritis and Joint Pain With daily use, Apeaz™ plus ArthriVarx™ helps users live a more vital, pain free life without any of the negative side effects or interactions associated with oral drugs.

By delivering fast, long-lasting, and targeted relief from joint pain and supporting longterm joint health, Apeaz™ and ArthriVarx™ is the newest, most effective way to tackle your arthritis pain.

You can now enjoy an entirely new level of comfort that’s both safe and affordable. It is also extremely effective, especially if nothing else has worked well for you.

How to Get Apeaz™ This is the first official public release of Apeaz™. In order to get the word out about Apeaz™, 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 1-800-451-7702 and will only be open while supplies last. Experience the guaranteed Apeaz™ relief already enjoyed by thousands of consumers. Don’t miss out, call 1-800-451-7702 today.

APEAZ IS AN FDA OTC COMPLIANT DRUG NDC # 57483-001-04 APPROVED FOR THE RELIEF OF PAIN FROM MUSCLES AND JOINTS INCLUDING ARTHRITIS PAIN. ARTHRIVARX STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FDA. ARTHRIVARX IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE AND IS NOT A DRUG. RESULTS MAY VARY. OFFER NOT AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS OF IOWA.

Wabash Valley Power news

Keep cool and save!

The summer sun quickly drives up outdoor temperatures — and energy bills with it!

Rather than perpetually running your air conditioner, some strategic planning can save you energy, leading to lower electric use. Steps you can take to reduce your energy costs are to: 1. Open the windows on cool summer evenings and nights. A cool breeze in the evening and overnight can keep you comfortable without the need for turning on the air conditioner.

2. During the day, use window treatments such as awnings and blinds to help reduce heat caused by the summer sun — particularly among south-facing windows.

Reducing the sun’s heat will reduce the energy needed to cool your home.

3. Turning on fans in your house can reduce energy needed to maintain comfort. The Department of Energy reports that a ceiling fan in the room will allow you to raise the thermostat up to 4 degrees Fahrenheit while maintaining the same level of comfort. But turn the fan off when you are done! The couch doesn’t need to be kept cool after you leave the room. Treat fans just like lights — be sure

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JUNE 2018

to turn the fan off when you leave the room.

4. Routine maintenance schedules will ensure efficiency! Schedule an annual inspection and maintenance to get the most out of your home’s heating and cooling systems. Also, be sure to regularly replace your furnace filter — this single step can ensure your system runs efficiently, minimizing energy waste and saving you money.

5. Set a routine schedule for your programmable thermostat to prevent wasting energy. Constantly changing the temperature settings on your thermostat can cause your air conditioner to work much more than needed — wasting energy and costing you money! Newer “smart” thermostats, such as the Nest and Ecobee thermostats, include tools such as energy reports and smart phone controls to help you use your HVAC system as efficiently as possible.

6. Seal. Insulate. Equip. Three keys to maximizing your efficiency! Start by sealing any air leaks in your house to prevent your chilled air from escaping — and hot air from seeping indoors. From

there, ensure your home is properly insulated, which will help maintain your home’s temperature. Finally, if your house is properly sealed and insulated, you may need to look into updating your HVAC system. You can even receive a POWER MOVES® rebate to help offset the cost of upgrading to a qualifying energy efficient system! By ensuring your house is properly sealed and insulated, you may find that a smaller piece of equipment will keep you comfortable.

7. Contact your local electric co-op to schedule an energy audit. This is a great way to learn about your home’s efficiency.

Your local cooperative will have a list of contractors conducting energy audits in your area; your co-op may even provide the audit for you. An energy audit will include a thorough review and testing of electricity use in your home, along with recommendations on how to improve your home’s efficiency.

Taking a few extra steps can save you money by reducing your energy use during the summer — and even year-round.

To learn more energy-saving tips, visit www.PowerMoves.com.

Bird’vsiew eye

profile

I

n Indiana, a land where annual obsessions called March Madness and Hoosier Hysteria thankfully bring us

nothing but net, it comes as no surprise that Electric Consumer readers’ pick for favorite Famous Hoosier would be a king of the basketball court. Larry Bird, the “Hick from French Lick,” who rose from humble beginnings to college and pro basketball superstardom, is not only a sports icon; he’s a true example of the Hoosier work ethic.

“I’ve got a theory that if you give 100 percent all of the time, somehow things will work out in the end,” he once said.

For Bird, now 61, that theory helped put him in NBA record books. He’s the only person in professional basketball history to be named Rookie of the Year (197980, Boston Celtics), Regular Season MVP (three times between 1983 and 1986), Finals MVP (1984 and 1986), Coach of the Year (1997-98, Indiana Pacers) and Executive of the Year (2011-12, Indiana Pacers).

As a player, he led the Indiana State University Sycamores to the final game of the 1979 NCAA championship and then, as a professional, led the Boston Celtics to two NBA championships. He played on the celebrated 1992 Olympic gold-medal-winning “Dream Team.” As a coach, he steered the Indiana Pacers to a berth in the 2000 NBA Finals. He retired from the coaching position after the end of the 2000 season, returning as the Pacers’ president of basketball operations in 2003. In 2012, Bird left the Pacers, only to return a year later as president of basketball operations. He served in that capacity until May 2017, and now

P HO TO CO URTESY O F THE I NDI ANA PACERS

PLEASE TURN TO THE NEXT PAGE JUNE 2018

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profile CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE maintains an advisory role within the Pacers organization.

We asked Bird about his Electric Consumer honor, his roots, his career and the game that has been his life. See what “Larry Legend” had to say.

Q: Electric Consumer readers from

Are you surprised by the changes and growth in the area over the past 20 years?

A: I’m really surprised. It’s beautiful in Southern Indiana and the changes the state — have been for the good and, hopefully, will continue.

Q: What exactly is your role as advisor

favorite “Famous Hoosier.” Why do you

to the president of basketball operations

think your fellow Hoosiers so easily

for the Indiana Pacers?

identify with you and “root” for you?

A: I do scouting, discuss direction of

I grew up in a small town in South-

you do anything differently?

A: I would not have tried to play through so many injuries. I would have had them taken care of.

— helping one of the poorest parts of

across Indiana chose you as their

A:

Q: Looking back on your career, would

team of team and stay in touch with

Q: What’s left on your bucket list?

A: Seeing the Pacers win a championship, whether I’m involved or not.

Q: What’s the best advice you were ever given?

A: As for basketball, no matter how much or how long you practice, no mat-

ern Indiana. After my background

(President of Basketball Operations)Kevin

ter how many shots you put up, someone

was written about during my career at

(Pritchard). He makes all the decisions.

is doing more.

we had there and the school not being a

Q: You’ve been a college and pro

basketball power, and the state’s love of

basketball standout, an Olympian, a

Q: What’s the best advice you ever

basketball, I think it all came together.

coach and a Pacers executive. What has

Indiana State, along with the success

Then when I came back to coach the Pacers and then to run the basketball side, it kind of stacked up on top of my early career.

Q: How does growing up in rural Indiana play a part in your daily life?

A: It keeps you humble. I loved growing up there and think about it often.

Q: Your hometown of French Lick and its neighbor West Baden have continually been recognized because of the resorts and the golf courses and nearby Patoka Lake for recreation.

FUN FACTS ABOUT LARRY BIRD • The bright blue Twitter logo is named “Larry” after Larry Bird. Turns out

been the highlight of your career? Why?

A: Winning championships, competing these things, to win.

Q: If you were 40 years younger, playing college or pro basketball now, do you think you’d be as successful — or more successful? Would you want to be playing ball now?

A: That’s hard to say, but I think I would

Q: The Pacers had a fabulous season this year, making it to the playoffs.

What’s been your takeaway from this season?

A: It was very pleasing. I liked how the team stayed together, I liked the leadership from a number of our guys and I liked how they competed every night.

succeed.

on the Broadway stage in the play

talking; one of his early jobs was picking

“Magic/Bird.” The play failed to attract

up trash back home in French Lick.

acclaim or an audience. It ran for just

Back in 1974, after dropping out of

one month in the spring 2012.

Indiana University and West Baden’s

canceled, Bird was named NBA

led the Boston Celtics to two NBA

Executive of the Year. He was the first

championships.

person to win NBA’s Triple Crown: best

JUNE 2018

should be listening.

for the game and I put in the work to

Boston and he grew up when Bird

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used it: Don’t always be talking when you

be successful because I did have talent

• Four days after “Magic/Bird” was

Bird and Magic Johnson was captured

A: I was told this when I was 10, but I’ve

for championships. That’s why you do

Twitter’s co-founder Biz Stone is from

• The rivalry and friendship between

gave?

player, coach and executive.

• Not only is Bird known for his trash

Northwood Institute, Bird got a job with his hometown’s street department, driving a garbage truck and doing maintenance and road repair work. He did that for nine months before returning to college, this time Indiana State University. The rest is history.