June 2022 — Indiana Connection

Painting the

Towns

pages 19-24

LOCAL HISTORY AND CULTURE TOLD AT A GLANCE

JUNE 2022

from the editor

GIDGET’S GADGET FROM ‘THE DAY’ Fifteen years ago this month, the first version of one of my constant companions — my beloved iPhone — was born. And though now I can’t imagine life without my iPhone, I can certainly remember those years pre-smartphone when phones were used solely for verbal communication!

Even though 19th and 20th century era phones couldn’t take photos, tally your daily number of steps, or provide instantaneous information about anything your heart desires, they were communication game-changers in their time. And in some cases, especially in the mid-century modern times, they were actually part of the home décor.

Case in point: the coveted Princess phone (complete with the convenient light up dial).

This stylish oval shaped phone — perfect for second phone lines (the ultimate luxury!) in bedrooms — was actually initially produced in Indiana. Princess phones came in a number of appealing colors, including — my favorite — the pastel pink version popularized Sally Field’s 1960s TV show “Gidget.”

Though phones from “the day” couldn’t travel in your purse or pocket, they were portable in their own way. You could pick up the phone itself and move it to a comfortable spot of your choice or, if the cord was long enough, cradle the receiver on your shoulder and converse while lounging on the sofa or bed. There were wall-mounted phones in some homes which provided a phone-booth-like aesthetic. A long-enough cord was a must here so you didn’t have to remain standing during long conversations.

While another 1960s show, “Get Smart,” introduced a spy phone cleverly hidden in a shoe (which, of course, only existed then in sitcom reality), in the 1970s and ‘80s, novelty phone styles began appearing en masse. They included the mod doughnut version, the retro candlestick style, the figurine Snoopy or Mickey Mouse phone (for the kid in all of us), and the phone shaped like giant red lips. In my pre-cordless phone days in the early ‘90s, I used a clunky corded phone with touch keys on the receiver which looked ironically similar to the earliest mobile phones I’d use just a few years later.

Although landline phones are still being used, especially in workplaces, the last 15 years have shown us that not only is technology advancing and changing but communication styles are evolving too. Though phones were initially used to “connect” people no matter where they were, today’s phones are actually more a multipurpose device than a conversational tool. In fact, if lovable alien ET were visiting us today he would probably not be phoning home. He’d just send a text of emojis.

EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@indianaec.org

I finally get to realize my dream of chatting on a Princess phone and being just like my idol, Gidget, thanks to the magic of Photoshop!

On the menu: September issue: Recipes using honey, deadline July 1. October issue: Recipes using beer, deadline Aug. 1. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Giveaway: Suggest a restaurant we should feature in an upcoming Indiana Eats

and you’ll be entered to win a four-quart Koji ice cream maker. For details and to enter, visit indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests.

Three ways to contact us: To send us recipes, photos, event listings, letters and entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website indianaconnection.org; email info@indianaconnection.org; or send to Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606.

VOLUME 71 • NUMBER 12 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 304,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership. Member’s cost per issue is approximately 32 cents, plus postage.

CONTACT US: 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600 Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606 317-487-2220 info@indianaconnection.org IndianaConnection.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS: Randy Kleaving President Steve McMichael Vice President Dr. Richard Leeper Secretary/Treasurer John Gasstrom CEO EDITORIAL STAFF: Emily Schilling Editor Richard George Biever Senior Editor Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist Ellie Schuler Senior Digital and Layout Design Specialist Lauren Carman Communication Coordinator Mandy Barth Vice President of Communication ADVERTISING: American MainStreet Publications Cheryl Solomon, local ad representative; 512-441-5200; amp.coop Crosshair Media 502-216-8537; crosshairmedia.net Paid advertisements are not endorsements by any electric cooperative or this publication.

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

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

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

Include key number.

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

JUNE 2022

3

contents

JUNE

10

14

energy

county

03 FROM THE EDITOR

12 INSIGHTS

05 CO-OP NEWS Energy news and information from your electric cooperative.

14 COUNTY OF THE MONTH Spotlighting Lawrence

10 ENERGY Power out? Time for your co-op to go to work.

County.

16 FOOD Salad Days: Celebrate summertime with these recipes from readers.

19

29

cover story 19 COVER STORY Painting the Towns: Local history and culture told at a glance.

25 SAFETY Familiarize yourself with your home’s electrical system.

26 DIY Open the door to

travel

28 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS 29 TRAVEL Roaring on the river at the Madison Regatta. (Not in all editions.)

30 PROFILE Chad Hinesley: Climbing the cooperative ladder.

(Not in all editions.)

a great looking entry.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Indiana Connection

On the cover Mural artist Kelsey Montague seemingly releases a profusion of butterflies to the delight of Paul Satchwill. The international muralist created two murals in Batesville in 2019. Satchwill is a board member of the Batesville Area Arts Council, one of the driving forces behind the murals made possible through civic organizations and donations.

PHOTO BY ANNE RAVER, SUBMITTED BY PAUL SATCHWILL

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JUNE 2022

SUM ME R FU N with the kids

Carve out some special family time during the kids’ summer break and make memories that will last a lifetime. Turn the page for some suggestions on how to have a safe and fun summer with the youngsters.

SETTING OFF FIREWORKS ON JULY 4?

Remember: safety first If the fireworks show is in your yard this July 4, your kids’ safety should be the top priority.

Most families celebrate by watching a local, professional show — supervised by firefighters. But if you’re starting the performance early with consumer fireworks, here are some tips: Your fireworks might be legal, but that doesn’t mean they are safe.

The U.S. Fire Administration reports

TOYS SHOULD BE SAFE AS WELL AS FUN Though going toy shopping for your children can be fun, the wide array of possibilities can also make

1

the experience overwhelming.

Check the minimum age recommendation on the package. Buy a gift that suits a child’s age, ability and interest level.

So, to help you navigate the toy aisle wisely, here is a checklist to help you choose safe toys:

2

Before buying electronic toys, remember that depending on how old the kids are, they will need to be supervised while

6

JUNE 2022

thousands of fireworks-related

Buy inexpensive glow sticks or

injuries each summer. The biggest

glow-in-the-dark necklaces and

threat: firecrackers, followed by

bracelets that will stay lighted all

bottle rockets and sparklers, which

night. Battery-operated fiber-optic

burn at about 2,000 degrees. Even

sparklers will put on a colorful show

tiny sparklers — a favorite of little

year after year without the danger of

kids’ — can reach a staggering 1,800

fireworks.

degrees, quickly causing dangerous burns even with minor skin contact.

Read and carefully follow

Fireworks are especially dangerous

labels. Most injuries result from

when used near power lines, so stay

improper use.

clear. Light fireworks only in open areas where no power lines can be seen, and call your cooperative immediately if your celebration gets tangled in an overhead wire.

Follow these additional safety tips from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: Children should be spectators, not participants, in the show.

Never give children fireworks or sparklers. Instead, keep kids entertained with safe alternatives.

directions and warning

, t i e k a M e it bak Rainy days and Mondays getting you and your kids down this summer?

Making sweet treats can be one of

Keep children and other

the most pleasant ways to spend a

spectators at least 20 feet away

rainy indoor afternoon with your

and not downwind from where the

children.

fireworks will be set off.

Baking with kids teaches them

Light fireworks only on a smooth,

kitchen skills that they’ll use for the

flat surface away from all flammable

rest of their lives. You also can use

materials, including dry leaves.

the opportunity to pass along some

Never try to relight fireworks that

lessons about choosing healthy

don’t function.

ingredients, practicing portion

Keep a bucket of water nearby in case of fire.

control and the joy of giving gifts baked with love when someone nearby needs a little cheering up.

Here are six tips for baking with kids:

they play with them. And, after play time, you’ll need to put the toys in a dry area out of

4

smaller kids’ reach.

3

BE PRESENT. If you usually blast Look for the letters “ASTM” on

music while you bake, turn it off

the packaging of the toys you

and give your full attention to your

buy. That means the toy meets

kids. Baking can be a teaching and

the American Society for

bonding time.

Testing and Materials’ safety Also with electronic toys, you’ll need to teach your children how to use their toys safely.

For example, if a toy has a cord

standards.

5

Buying toys from thrift shops, flea markets and garage sales

TAKE YOUR TIME. Choose a day when you want to bake — not one when you have to. Make it an event, not a chore.

will save you a few bucks, but

DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF. So

children how to safely use

second-hand toys may not

what if the cookies are all different

electrical outlets. You’ll need to

adhere to newer safety standards

sizes and there’s sticky dough all

demonstrate how to unplug by

and could be dangerous.

over the floor? Embrace the magic;

that plugs into the wall, teach

pulling on the plug itself, not the cord.

6

don’t expect perfection.

Keep an eye out for toy recalls online at www.cpsc.gov.

Continued on page 8 JUNE 2022

7

IT’S FUN TO

recycle

Teach your children how they can be good environmental stewards while having fun at the same time.

VINTAGE CLOTHING CAN BE COOL! Take the kids to resale/thrift shops and antique stores to find authentic distressed jeans and true vintage T-shirts to wear. Plus, they’ll actually be doing their part to recycle while putting together a unique look!

TURN IT OVER Before throwing out a used piece of paper, tell the kiddos to turn it over to see if the other side is blank. If so, it can still be used. They can use it to draw on or play a game of MASH.

COLLECT AND DONATE Enlist your children to help you gather items your family no longer needs to donate to charity. They can also lead the charge to recycle aluminum cans and paper. Lions Clubs collect used glasses and used cell phones are collected by many community organizations to be used by servicemen or servicewomen overseas or by victims of domestic violence.

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JUNE 2022

Continued from page 7 ASSIGN TASKS BASED ON YOUR CHILDREN’S AGES. Little ones can stir and add the chocolate chips. Kids who are a little older can scoop the dough

TEACH ALONG THE WAY. For example, you can have the kids separate eggs, even if the recipe doesn’t call for it.

That way, it doesn’t matter if the yolks spill into the whites as they practice.

onto the baking sheets. As they grow,

CLEAN UP AS YOU GO. Putting away the

show them how to use the electric

ingredients and wiping off counters

mixer, turn on the oven and safely

after you finish each step of the prep

slide the baking sheets onto the heated

is a good habit for any young baker

racks.

or cook to form. And it will save you from cleaning up a mess once the fun is done.

Take a walk and take a look Go on a scavenger hunt!

It’s a beautiful summer day. What should you do with your young ones?

Head outdoors, take a walk and go on a scavenger hunt!

Clip out this list of things to look for and a hunting you will go!

A CRACK IN THE SIDEWALK

A CAR

AN ANTHILL

A BICYCLE

A BUTTERFLY

A TREE

A BIRD

SOMETHING ROUND

A FLOWER

A PIECE OF TRASH YOU CAN RECYCLE

SOMETHING YELLOW

A MAILBOX

A ROCK

A FENCE

A DOG

A CLOUD

A SQUIRREL

A SIGN

A POWER LINE

ADVERTISEMENT

energy

The last time you thought about your electricity provider may have been when power suddenly went out. Fortunately, seconds later, your local electric co-op already was at work restoring service.

Power out?

Time for your co-op to go to work BY

Darrell Marks

Your local electric co-op works around the clock 24 hours every day, 365 days each year, to ensure safe, reliable delivery of affordable electricity. The organization also works with Wabash Valley Power Alliance or Hoosier Energy, the generation and transmission cooperatives that generate and deliver power to distribution co-ops in Indiana. Your co-op is even part of a network of more than 900 consumer-owned not-for-profit electric cooperatives that work with local, state, regional and even federal agencies that monitor and operate the nation’s energy grid (some agencies even work across North America!).

Energy Services Specialist | Kankakee Valley REMC

The complex transmission system that delivers electricity to homes and businesses in your community includes:

HIGH-VOLTAGE TRANSMISSION LINES: The transmission towers and cables that carry large amounts of highvoltage electricity from generating plants to local and regional distribution substations.

DISTRIBUTION SUBSTATIONS: Electrical facilities that contain equipment for controlling flow of electricity from where it is generated to those using it. Transmission line voltages are reduced to levels that are carried along distribution lines. Each substation can serve thousands of memberconsumers of a local electric cooperative.

MAIN DISTRIBUTION LINES: Main distribution lines carry the electricity to populated areas, including businesses and neighborhoods, in a community.

TAP LINES:

These lines carry power to transformers and are connected to poles outside of homes and businesses.

SERVICE LINES TO INDIVIDUAL HOMES: A service line from a nearby transformer delivers electricity to individual buildings, where it is then used by appliances, devices and 10systems.

JUNE 2022

Your local electric co-op’s employees, from the CEO to linemen, member service reps and more, are dedicated to ensuring your community has the reliable electricity needed to power your day.

ADVERTISEMENT

insights

Letter

TO THE EDITOR NAMED AFTER HANK AARON My full name is Jeffrey Aaron Manes. I turned 65 on April 8 this year. My mother chose my middle name because she liked the way it sounded when reading about the up-andcoming Henry Aaron back in 1957.

Hammerin’ Hank surpassed the Bambino on my 17th birthday.

Several years later, at a baseball card show in Valparaiso, I met Hank and told him I was named after him. Then, I showed him my driver’s license. A big smile appeared on Hank’s face when he saw that I was born on April 8.

Jeff Manes, Hebron, Indiana

MARKETPLACE Our Marketplace offers maximum exposure for your business or organization at a minimal cost.

Please contact Cheryl Solomon, 847-749-4875 or cheryl@amp.coop, for other small business advertising opportunities in Indiana Connection. a

ipshewan Sh e s t. 1 9 2 2

Auction & Flea Market

SHIPSHEWANA FLEA MARKET OPEN NOW THROUGH SEPTEMBER 28 Midwest’s Largest Flea Market Every Tuesday & Wednesday 8 am – 4 pm; Rain or Shine Weekly Antique Auction Every Wednesday, Year-Round ShipshewanaFleaMarket.com

WINNERS SELECTED FOR 2 5TH ANNI VE RSARY CALE NDAR Twenty-six student artists were selected as first place and honorable mention winners in the annual art contest sponsored by Indiana’s electric cooperatives. Their artworks will illustrate the cover and inside pages of the 2023 edition of the Cooperative Calendar of Student Art. The popular project celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

The calendar will be printed this fall and will be distributed statewide by participating electric cooperatives as well as Indiana Connection.

JUNE 2022

• First Grade — Arabella White, Medora • Second Grade — Alexander DeSchamp, Jasper

Andrew Zink, a home-schooled student from Winona Lake who recently completed his junior year, was selected as “Artist of the Year.” His “Best of Show” drawing paid homage to his family’s traditional Thanksgiving dinner apple pie dessert.

• Third Grade — Flynn Cissell, Borden

Students who enter the art contest are asked to create artworks to illustrate the month that corresponds numerically with their grade at the time they enter the contest.

Kindergartners have carte blanche when creating artwork for the calendar’s cover.

• 11th Grade — Andrew Zink, Winona Lake

Indiana electric cooperatives began the contest in 1998 to recognize and encourage student artists. In the 25 years since, some 96,464 pieces of art have been created and entered in the art contest.

• Fourth Grade — Erika Batz, Williams

To view the winning artworks, visit IndianaConnection.org and follow the links.

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GRADE DIVISION WINNERS • Kindergarten — Sophia Lueken, Jasper

• Fourth Grade — Kaylin Fuller, Charlestown • Fifth Grade — Lydia Kelley, Charlestown • Sixth Grade — Cali Ann Fox, Seymour • Seventh Grade — Adilynn Meyers, Decatur • Eighth Grade — Ellie Hilbert, Noblesville • Ninth Grade — Bailey Hering, Union Mills • 10th Grade — Alivia Tucker, South Whitley • 12th Grade — Heidi Blattert, Mitchell • Best of Show — Andrew Zink, Winona Lake HONORABLE MENTION WINNERS • Kindergarten — Mira Smith, Fairland • First Grade — Samuel Smith, Churubusco • Second Grade — Brantly Roller, Burnettsville • Third Grade — Elizabeth Avis, Elizabeth • Fifth Grade — Elizabeth Blattert, Mitchell • Sixth Grade — Nandini Amol Kondhare, Columbus • Seventh Grade — Sophie Yang, Brownsburg • Eighth Grade — Ashelyn Evans, Medaryville • Ninth Grade — Sarah Stonerock, Greenfield • 10th Grade — Isabella Fox, North Vernon • 11th Grade — Ellie Sims, Paoli • 12th Grade — Addy Knakiewicz, Morocco

county feature

Lawrence County Wonderful contrasts — between the past and future; between the defined bedrock of Earth and the deep bluesky weightless vastness of space — are celebrated in Lawrence County.

Situated in the heart of Indiana’s famed limestone belt, the county is known worldwide for the stone quarried from beneath its soil. Bedford, the county seat, is known as the “Limestone Capital of the World.” The large quarries in the area produced limestone for the Empire State Building and The Pentagon.

Meanwhile, the county also boasts of its connection to the stars. Three astronauts hail from Lawrence County.

The first was Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom who was born and raised in Mitchell in southern Lawrence County.

A World War II veteran, Korean War fighter pilot and Air Force test pilot, Grissom was one of the original “Mercury Seven,” the first corps of astronauts NASA named in 1959.

Grissom was the second American to fly in space in July 1961. He was the first astronaut to fly two missions as pilot on Gemini 3 and was selected to be the first to fly three missions as commander of the ill-fated Apollo 1.

He and crewmen Ed White and Roger B. Chaffee died Jan. 27, 1967, when an electrical fire broke out in their capsule during pre-launch testing at Cape Kennedy, Florida.

The two other astronauts from Lawrence County are Charles Walker and Kenneth Bowersox. Walker, born and raised in Oolitic, was an engineer and astronaut who flew on three Space Shuttle missions in 1984 and 1985. As a payload specialist for the McDonnell Douglas Corporation, Walker was the first non-government individual to fly in space. Though born in Virginia, Bowersox considers Bedford as his

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JUNE 2022

The contrasts of Lawrence County can be seen in Mitchell’s memorial to hometown hero pioneering astronaut Gus Grissom. The limestone replica of his Gemini 3 rocket and spacecraft is silhouetted against our nearest star and the deep blue heavens he helped open.

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

hometown. He flew five Space Shuttle missions and had an extended stay aboard the International Space Station.

Spring Mill State Park, just east of Mitchell, puts these contrasts between the natural and cultural worlds, the past and the future in one spot. The park is among the most beautiful and popular in the state.

Water flowing from several springs led to the founding of an industrial village there in the early 1800s.

Pioneer entrepreneurs took advantage of a constant water source that never froze, using it to power several gristmills, a wool mill, a saw mill, and a distillery.

The restored Pioneer Village contains 20 historic buildings to explore. The centerpiece is a threestory limestone gristmill, built in 1817, that still grinds cornmeal. Heritage interpreters portray the year 1863 and demonstrate period crafts.

Meanwhile, the park also pays tribute to Grissom at the Grissom Memorial just inside the park’s gates. The memorial tells the story of Grissom’s life and his contributions to the space program through a short video. Exhibits include Grissom’s space suit, the Gemini 3 Molly Brown spacecraft, and artifacts from his personal and professional life.

The park also has a popular inn and campground. For more info, visit: www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parkslakes/spring-mill-state-park.

County Facts FOUNDED: 1818 NAMED FOR: James Lawrence, an officer of the U.S. Navy who died in battle during the War of 1812. He is probably best known today for his last words, “Don’t give up the ship!”

POPULATION: 45,000 COUNTY SEAT: Bedford INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 47

food

Salad Days CELEBRATE SUMMERTIME WITH THESE RECIPES FROM READERS

APPLESTRAWBERRYSPINACH SALAD

SALAD: I lb. fresh spinach, torn

Karen L. Owen Rising Sun, Indiana

2 cups chopped unpeeled Granny Smith apples ¾ cup fresh bean sprouts (canned may be substituted but chill first) ½ cup sliced strawberries ¼ cup crumbled cooked bacon

In a large bowl, combine salad ingredients. Put dressing ingredients in a jar and shake.

Just before serving, pour dressing over salad.

Cook’s note:

DRESSING: ½ cup vegetable oil ⅓ cup white wine vinegar 1 small onion, grated ½ cup sugar 2 t. Worcestershire sauce 2 t. salt

CAULIFLOWER AND BROCCOLI SALAD Glenda Sensenig Cutler, Indiana

F O O D P R E PA R E D B Y HO L LY H U F F MA N A N D EMILY S C H ILLIN G P HO TOS BY R IC H AR D G. B IEV E R

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JUNE 2022

This salad does not refrigerate well. I prepare vegetables, fruit and bacon and place in separate containers and leave the dressing in the jar. Fix individual salads as desired.

SALAD:

DRESSING:

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut up

1 cup mayonnaise

1 small head of broccoli, cut up

¼ cup sugar

8 slices of bacon, fried and crumbled

2 T. vinegar

1 small onion, chopped (optional)

Combine and pour over vegetables.

Refrigerate before serving.

Mix together.

food

COLORIFIC SALAD Eleanor Watkins Bourbon, Indiana

SALAD: 2 heads Romaine lettuce, chopped 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese 2 chopped red pepper 1 cup pecans 1 cup dried cranberries 1 cup honey roasted sesame sticks ½ purple onion, thinly sliced (optional) Mix together in a large bowl.

DRESSING: 1 cup sugar ⅓ cup vinegar

RANCH PASTA SALAD

1 t. salt ½ t. pepper

Kylie Olson St. Paul, Indiana

1 T. onion flakes 1 T. mustard

1 pkg. ranch dressing mix 1 cup buttermilk 1 cup mayonnaise 2 cups pasta shells 8 oz. sharp Cheddar cheese, cut in small cubes 1 cup frozen peas, thawed 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk together the ranch dressing mix, buttermilk and mayonnaise.

Refrigerate at least 30 minutes.

Cook pasta according to box directions. Drain and cool. Add cooked pasta, cheese, peas and bacon to a large serving bowl.

Toss together with ranch dressing, beginning with ½ cup, adding more as desired. Season with salt and pepper.

½ cup oil ¼ cup water 2 T. mayonnaise Combine all dressing ingredients in a blender or place in a jar and shake well. Pour dressing over salad and mix lightly just before serving.

JUNE 2022

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WE WA N

Indiana eats

TT

O KNOW

What’s your favorite Indiana restaurant?

FOR THE PAST FIVE YEARS, WE’VE SPOTLIGHTED EATERIES OF ALL KINDS FROM ALL OVER THE STATE IN OUR INDIANA EATS FEATURE. We’ve focused on pizzerias, bakeries, diners, barbecue joints, fine dining establishments and so much more.

As we begin year six of Indiana Eats, we’d like to hear your suggestions of restaurants we should feature in the future. Turn to page 3 for information on how to contact us. Tell us what your favorite restaurant is and why it should be featured in Indiana Eats. Contact us by June 30 for a chance to win a Koji four-quart ice cream maker.

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JUNE 2022

safety

FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH YOUR HOME’S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM A lot of people won’t plug in their new TV or toaster without reading the instruction book at least once. But many will move into a new home without understanding the electrical system that makes everything work. Would you know how to trip the main circuit if someone was being shocked at an outlet somewhere?

“Understanding how your home’s electrical system functions is important not only to keep it properly maintained, but for your safety if a problem arises,” said John Gasstrom, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives. “We ask all of our consumers to familiarize themselves with this equipment that keeps their homes running smoothly.”

The electric cooperative handles the line portion of a consumer’s service, which includes everything up to and including the meter on the side of the house.

Everything beyond that point is called the “load side.” Everything on the load side is the consumer’s responsibility.

The meter measures the amount of electricity your home uses and determines your bill each month. Tampering with it is both extremely dangerous and illegal.

You’ll find your electrical service panel inside your home. It keeps everything inside running. The service panel sends electricity to the light switches, outlets and appliances. If your electricity short circuits or an overload shuts down power, your service panel is where you will go to restore the flow.

Circuit breakers help your home’s electrical system from overloading, thus preventing an electrical fire. (Homes built before 1965 may still use fuses.) The main breaker will cut all power to the home, and the individual circuit breakers administer power to individual parts of the home. If you look in your service panel, all of the circuits and what they power should be labeled. A couple times a year, try turning each breaker on and off. This helps familiarize you with each component of the box and will keep them from getting stuck.

Homeowners should make sure no circuits are overloaded. A general rule when setting up your breakers is to have only one big ticket item on a circuit.

That means you would not put your refrigerator and washing machine on the same circuit. If your circuits frequently overload, it may be time to contact an electrician to add more circuits to your service panel.

ELECTRIC LINGO When you call an electrician to assist you with a problem, it’s helpful to know the lingo.

Here are a few electrical terms to know: ELECTRICAL SERVICE PANEL: Distributes electricity to switches, outlets and appliances. This is where you can restore the flow to an overloaded circuit or shut down the power to the circuit.

FUSES: Safety devices used to protect individual circuits installed in homes before 1965. Each time a fuse is blown it must be replaced.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS: Standard safety devices used to protect individual circuits.

When a circuit is “tripped,” it just has to be manually reset to resume operating.

ARC FAULT: A dangerous electrical problem caused by damaged, overheated or stressed electrical wiring or devices.

ARC FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTORS (AFCIs): AFCIs are protective devices that replace standard circuit breakers in the electric service panel. AFCIs provide enhanced protection against additional fire hazards known as arc faults.

TAMPER RESISTANT RECEPTACLE (TRR): A wall outlet that features an internal shutter mechanism.

JUNE 2022

25

do-it-yourself

DOES YOUR FRONT DOOR NEED A REFRESH?

Open the door

a great looking to

ENTRY

With your yard’s spring cleanup behind you, it’s a great time to focus on your home’s front entrance. After all, it’s the first thing people notice as they approach your home.

Whether it’s an expansive area for entertaining or just a simple piece of concrete, there are lots of ways to spruce it up without breaking the bank. Simple DIY touches (or touch ups) to your entryway will add warmth and character that are inviting and amp up curb appeal.

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JUNE 2022

START FRESH First things first: Do an all-over cleanup of the walkways leading up to the front door. Use a stiff bristle broom to sweep the front porch and recessed alcoves of leftover autumn leaves, wayward mulch, and other debris. Clear out the corners and areas around the porch

do-it-yourself light where cobwebs and

seals around the door’s

numbers or add a snazzy

an eye-catching way to

dead bugs collect. Give

opening and replace

new letterbox. Finally,

welcome guests. Or try

the cement slab or paver

ones that are dried out

add a new doormat that

more substantial rocking

stones a good power

and cracked. Make sure

welcomes guests inside,

chairs or a porch swing

wash with eco-friendly

the door jam will properly

but leaves dirt and debris

for added comfort and

cleaning agents. Scrub

accommodate your new

outside.

relaxation. Small side

dirt and grime from your

door’s locks and strike

storm door, then remove

plates.

Outdated hardware on

BLOCK EYES AND THE ELEMENTS

your door can age your

Consider installing an

home’s entry, so check out

awning over your front

the newest finishes and

door. They protect

styles. Then, carry this

your door’s paint from

new look through to your

direct sun and keep the

porch lights, too. Today’s

entryway dry on rainy

energy-efficient fixtures

days. Freshen up an

have many options, such

existing awning with an

as seasonal bulb colors,

outdoor fabric cleaner or

UPDATE AND ACCESSORIZE

motion sensors, or smart

replace a tattered one

technology for added

with new fabric. Cleverly

security. Add a subtle

placed vertical planters

If your front door has seen

glow nearby with a few

or hanging baskets full

better days, a refresh

solar landscape lights or a

of bright blooms add

is in order. Remove old

string of outdoor Edison-

pops of color and a bit of

paint with a paint stripping

style bulbs.

privacy. If your porch has

screens and spray them out with a hose and soap. Clean both doors’ hardware with a mild, finish-friendly cleaner.

Then wipe down inserts, transoms, and sidelights with a good glass cleaner that leaves them sparkling.

solvent, then fill in small scratches or gouges with a spackle made for your type of door. Apply a fresh coat of primer and several coats of door paint in a bold new color.

If new paint isn’t enough, consider replacing your old door with a heavier core door with enhanced insulation. Inspect the

Replace an old builder’s grade doorbell with a modern style, or install a Ring doorbell that lets you see and speak to visitors. Add pizzazz with a decorative door knocker, or install a permanent or moveable door hanger for wreaths and seasonal décor. Replace old house

by

weight-bearing columns,

tables keep beverages handy, and a few outdoor pillows complete the look.

A resin wicker storage bench or deck box offers additional seating and a dry place for package deliveries. Now sit back and enjoy the summer nights from your newly updated and welcoming front porch.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL DO IT BEST STORE OR DOITBEST.COM

try outdoor curtains or a

for thousands of

lattice wall with plants or

the best home

ivy for added privacy that

improvement

helps block the wind.

products,

HAVE A SEAT

including

If space allows, add some weather-resistant

supplies to refresh your

seating to your front

home’s front

porch. Brightly colored

entrance.

Adirondack chairs are

Dustin Reynolds and Shannon Morrow

Dustin Reynolds and Shannon Morrow are part of the leadership team at Tweedy Lumber & Hardware in Rushville. They’re member-owners of Do it Best, a Fort Wayne-based cooperative of thousands of hardware stores, home centers and lumberyards throughout the U.S. and around the world.

(This article is for informational purposes only. Indiana Connection and Do it Best Corp. assume no liability for the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, or for injuries, property damage, or the outcome of any project.)

JUNE 2022

27

Wabash Valley Power news

attend your co-op’s annual meeting As people plan in-person events following the pandemic-induced isolation the past two years, some are circling calendar dates for a familiar favorite — from their electric cooperative.

Many electric co-ops are planning their annual meetings following canceled, scaled down, or virtual events during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some co-ops have returned to hosting in-person member events, while others have scheduled virtual meetings this year. Whether in-person or virtually, you can receive several benefits from attending your co-op’s annual meeting.

MEET. EAT! BE ENTERTAINED: If your electric coop hosts an in-person event, it

can be a great chance to meet and catch up with friends and neighbors. Annual meetings are community events, which means everyone is welcome.

They likely will offer some of the best food around, and there are often family-friendly games and activities.

LEARN: No matter your age, you should learn something new every day — and your coop’s annual meeting will help you reach that goal! You will learn about your electric coop’s accomplishments over the past year, as well as future opportunities and potential challenges. You also can learn more about the programs that your co-op offers to benefit families and businesses.

WIN! Many electric co-ops offer bill credits or prizes for participating in their annual meeting. Register and vote when you arrive, stay for the meeting, and you may be eligible to win. You don’t want to miss it!

VOTE: The annual meeting is your chance to have a direct impact on how your electric co-op is governed. You can vote for members running for positions on your co-op’s board of directors. The board creates policies that directly impact you and all co-op members. Democratic participation is part of the foundational bedrock of all cooperatives, and voting is one of the cooperative principles!

As a member of an electric coop, you also are part owner.

And that means that your co-op’s annual meeting was made for you! Many annual meetings feel like a casual gathering with friends and neighbors that include food, family-friendly games and activities with a brief meeting involved.

Even virtual meetings feel like they are sessions for catching up with neighbors.

Plan to participate in your co-op’s annual event and have a say in how your co-op operates.

Hoosier Energy news

BACK AFTER A PANDEMIC PAUSE Annual Meeting attendees urged to work toward the future The 2022 Annual Meeting of your electric cooperative’s power provider, Hoosier Energy, returned to the French Lick Resort on April 7 after a three-year pause due to the pandemic.

All of the generation and transmission cooperative’s 18 member cooperatives (including your local electric cooperative) were represented and on hand. The guest list was pared down for this year’s meeting and a more serious approach followed the day’s business session.

Hoosier Energy President and CEO Donna Walker kicked things off by welcoming attendees back to an inperson meeting format. “This is such a nice change from the past few years,” she said. “I don’t think any of us were thinking when we left the 2019 Annual Meeting that in just a few short months we’d be facing a global pandemic that has forever changed so many aspects of our lives.”

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JUNE 2022

That was especially true on the business side of things. Walker hosted a panel discussion with Hoosier Energy’s senior staff members – Rob Horton, Jon Jackson, Chris Blunk and Shannon Thom. They addressed decisions made on the future of the Merom generating station, the pandemic, financial status, resource portfolio, demand side management, distributing energy resources, risk management and cost management, to name a few.

Other meeting highlights: • Guest speaker John Bear, CEO of MISO (Midcontinent Independent System Operator), shared his insights on the transitioning energy market with its impact on both generation and transmission.

• Change remained the unofficial theme as the day wrapped up with a Grid Reliability Panel, moderated by National Rural Telecommunications

Cooperative (NRTC) CEO Tim Bryan.

The panel consisted of Hoosier Energy Chief Technology Officer Bob Richhart, Jackson County REMC CEO Mark McKinney and South Central Indiana REMC CEO James Tanneberger.

Topics ranged from the smart grid to load control to the impact of fiber on communications and broadband as well as the funding for those programs.

As the meeting concluded, Walker encouraged attendees to look ahead toward the future. “My hope is as we leave here today, we feel optimistic about the future we’re working toward together,” she said.

Just as your local electric cooperative hosts an annual member meeting each year, your co-op’s generation and transmission cooperative holds an annual meeting for its member electric cooperatives. This article summarizes what happened at this year’s Hoosier Energy Annual Meeting.

travel

ROARING

on the river PHO TO PRO V I D E D BY MADI S O N RE G ATTA

The world’s

fastest boats will be skimming across the surface of the Ohio River at the Madison Regatta,

W

hen it comes to the world’s fastest motorsports, the 2.5mile oval at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is where it’s at during the month of May and Memorial Day Weekend. But the Fourth of July Weekend belongs to the annual Madison Regatta and its 2.5-mile circuit on the Ohio River.

Skimming and MADISON, skipping across INDIANA the water at up to nearly 200 miles per hour, the world’s fastest boats will vie for the Indiana Governor’s Cup, July 1-3, as the H1 Unlimited Hydroplane Series roars and roostertails its way to the Madison Riverfront.

In addition, the beautiful Jefferson County rivertown will host a wide variety of other events accompanying the races, including the Roostertail Music Festival, July 1-2, and activities tied to the Fourth of July celebration. The regatta

July 1-3. itself has been held annually for 72 years in Madison and is one of the largest hydroplane races in the United States.

Today’s hydroplanes are about 30 feet long, weigh more than three tons, are powered by 3,000-horsepower gas-turbine engines. They skim across the water’s surface at breathtaking speed while throwing spray high into the air. Average lap speeds in Madison will likely be in the neighborhood of 150 to more than 160 mph.

The Roostertail Music Festival 2022 lineup will include 38 Special, Jo Dee Messina, Cody Ikerd and the Sidewinders, Brother Smith, Sarah Shook & the Disarmers, Cole Chaney with special guest Wolfpen Branch, and Logan Halstead.

The weekend of events kicks off Friday, July 1, with the City of Madison/Madison Regatta Parade presented by German American Bank and Day 1 of the music festival. A 10k run, autograph

sessions with the hydroplane racers, a cornhole tournament, a fireworks extravaganza, will also be part of the weekend.

Other events this month leading up to the Regatta/Fourth of July weekend include a co-Miss Madison Regatta Scholarship Pageant, baby and beauty pageants, waterball fights, street dance, and more.

Tickets prices range from $40 for the race only to $70 for the race and music festival to $250 for VIP race and music festival access.

Primitive camping is also available for $40.

For more information, including a detailed updated list of activities and times, and to order tickets, visit: www.madisonregatta.com; or call: 812-274-4112; or find the Madison Regatta on Facebook. For information about lodging, dining, and events around Madison, please go to: VisitMadison.org.

JUNE 2022

29

cooperative career Professional progression:

CLIMBING T H E C O OP E R AT IV E LA DDER The average worker will hold 10 different jobs before the age of 40 and a dozen throughout his or her career, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says. Chad Hinesley was right at that average. He held 10 different jobs by age 44. But how many “average workers” hold 10 different jobs without ever changing employers?

When manual meter reading was phased out with new technology, he was offered the chance to become a groundman, a position that assists the journeymen linemen.

“It’s been nice to be able to start at the bottom and have the opportunity to work my way up,” Hinesley said.

When the cooperative had an opening for an apprentice lineman, often the next step for young groundmen, he applied and began the upward climb through the stages of apprenticeship until graduating to journeyman lineman. But he still wasn’t done.

In 2017, he was recognized for his leadership skills and promoted to a line foreman, which added the responsibility of overseeing the crew members with whom he worked sideby-side.

Hinesley, now 46, is the line superintendent at Henry County REMC. He oversees 15 employees, planning the day-to-day work schedules including construction of new line, maintenance and upgrades.

He started with the cooperative’s tree-trimming crew in 1996, not long after high school. That’s also when he started climbing on every rung of the “cooperative ladder.”

When the cooperative, based in his hometown of New Castle, outsourced tree trimming, he was offered the chance to move to meter reading.

1996 hired Tree Trimmer Henry County REMC

When the line superintendent at the cooperative retired, Hinesley took one more step, applying for and being promoted to that position.

Hinesley said he’s never had a long-

2001 Started Apprentice Lineman Program Henry County REMC

Moved through the four years of on-the-job and classroom training.

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JUNE 2022

Chad Hinesley Line Superintendent Henry County REMC

range plan for his career, but when opportunities came along, he wasn’t afraid to take the next step up. Each previous position helped prepare him for the next, he said. And, after becoming a lineman, his career has been one continuous “on-the-job, hands-on training.”

Though most workers change jobs and employers a dozen times throughout their career, at Indiana’s electric cooperatives, employees find not just new opportunities but are encouraged to move up — without ever having to move out.

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

2017 Promoted

2020 PROMOTED

Line Foreman Henry County REMC

Line Superintendent Henry County REMC

Oversees and manages 15 employees, plans line construction, maintenance, upgrades, and more.