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FEBRUARY 2019
from the editor
Stranger things have happened My daughter says I’m a teenager stuck in a mom’s body. Why? I’m a boy band fan who once sat in the front row at a 1D concert. I read young adult fiction — and watch adaptations of those books when they’re made into movies. I’m obsessed with Hello Kitty. I know what “Bughead” stands for. And, though I’m definitely over 20, I know what’s going on in Hawkins, Indiana. Hawkins is thankfully not a real town because, trust me, you wouldn’t want to live there. It’s the setting for the hit Netflix series “Stranger Things,” a popular sci-fi show based in the 1980s featuring Dungeons and Dragons-playing middle schoolers, a psychokinetic heroine named Eleven who binges on Eggo waffles, a scary underground world, monsters, cool music and (the real) Wynona Ryder. Season 3 of “Stranger Things” premieres on July 4 so if you have not been introduced to the “Upside Down” yet, you might want to check out the first two seasons now.
VOLUME 69 • NUMBER 1 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by:
Indiana Connection is for and about members of Indiana’s locally-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives. It helps consumers use electricity safely and efficiently; understand energy issues; connect with their co-op; and celebrate life in Indiana. Over 292,000 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
“Stranger Things” is just one of the several Indiana-based television shows with locales you won’t find on a map. Cases in point: • “Unbreakable Kimmy Schimdt,” a recently-ended Netflix show, was based in Durnsville, Indiana. • “The Middle” took place in Orson, Indiana, which reportedly was based on real-life Jasper, Indiana. • Pawnee, Indiana, was home base in the popular Amy Poehler series “Parks and Recreation.” I have no clue why Indiana’s claims to TV fame are often fictitious. Why not put Monticello, Wabash, Rising Sun or Huntingburg in the spotlight? Faux teens like me might want to actually visit the hometowns of our small screen favorites — even though Wynona Ryder and Amy Poehler won’t be there to greet us.
EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@indianaec.org
On the menu: October issue: Pork recipes, deadline Aug. 2.
November issue: Olive oil recipes, deadline Aug. 2. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.
Giveaway: Family Cavern Day! We’re giving away four tickets to
Squire Boone Caverns and four tickets to Indiana Caverns courtesy of Harrison County Convention & Visitors Bureau. Enter to win online at www.indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests by July 31.
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.
info@indianaconnection.org IndianaConnection.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS: Gary Gerlach President Walter Hunter Vice President Randy Kleaving Secretary/Treasurer John Gasstrom CEO EDITORIAL STAFF: Emily Schilling Editor Richard George Biever Senior Editor Holly Huffman Member Relations/ Advertising Manager Ellie Schuler Senior Communication Specialist ADVERTISING: American MainStreet Publications, 512-441-5200; amp.coop Crosshair Media, 502-216-8537; crosshairmedia.net Paid advertisements are not endorsements by any electric cooperative or this publication. UNSOLICITED MATERIAL: Indiana Connection does not use unsolicited freelance manuscripts or photographs and assumes no responsibility for the safe‑keeping or return of unsolicited material. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $12 for individuals not subscribing through participating REMCs/RECs. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Readers who receive Indiana Connection through their electric co-op membership should report address changes to their local co-op. POSTAGE: Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, Ind., and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to: Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606. Include key number. No portion of Indiana Connection may be reproduced without permission of the editor.
JULY 2019
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contents
JULY
10
17
energy
03 FROM THE EDITOR 05 CO-OP NEWS What’s happening at your local electric cooperative.
food
16 INDIANA EATS The Saratoga: a Terre Haute institution. 17 FOOD
10 ENERGY
A hint of mint.
Bigger isn’t always better.
20 COVER STORY Peru Circus: A town under the big top.
12 INSIGHTS 14 COUNTY OF THE MONTH
30
Spotlighting Harrison County.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Indiana Connection
33
backyard 26 EVENTS CALENDAR 28 DIY Recharging your car’s AC system. 29 SAFETY Irrigation information. 30 BACKYARD Tick Talk Time.
travel
32 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS 33 TRAVEL No run of the ‘mill’ park. (Not in all versions) 34 PROFILE Purdue alumni play key roles in U.S. space program.
(Not in all versions)
On the cover The annual Peru Amateur Youth Circus allows all participants to shine — whether they be aerialists, jugglers, clowns, band members or more. Big top dreams are realized by even the youngest performers who bring sparkle, vibrant hues and bright smiles to the eight-day-long extravaganza. PHOTO PROVIDED BY HARMON PHOTOGRAPHY INC.
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JULY 2019
co-op news
Safe practices www.kremc.com CONTACT US Local: 574-267-6331 Toll-Free: 800-790-REMC EMAIL mail@kremc.com OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday-Friday ADDRESS 370 S. 250 E., Warsaw, IN 46582 SERVICE INTERRUPTIONS To report a service interruption after hours, please call 267-6331 or 800-790-REMC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS William Stump Jr., Chairman Dan Tucker, Vice Chairman John Hand, Secretary/Treasurer Kim Buhrt Terry Bouse Tony Fleming Pam Messmore Steve Miner Rick Parker
SUMMER COOKING When it’s warm out, avoid using the oven. Try cooking on the stove, using the microwave or grilling outside instead. — U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Use your Co-op Connections Card to save at local businesses Fahl Manufactured Homes in Warsaw $1,000 off retail price with home purchase, applicable on first visit only LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/kosciuskoremc
for happy homecomings
Before serving our members in my current role, I was a lineman for 29 years, and I managed our engineering and operations department for 10 years. I know from personal experience that working with electricity can be a dangerous job, especially for lineworkers. USA Today lists line repairers and installers among the most dangerous jobs in the U.S. That’s why safety is the number one priority for KREMC. Over time, we have created a culture of putting our crews’ safety and that of the community above all else. Our employees have earned recognition from Federated Insurance for over 358,274 hours since our last lost time accident that occurred in 2014. That’s a great accomplishment. Our mission is to provide safe, reliable, and affordable energy to you, our consumermembers. We strive to deliver affordable and reliable electricity to you, but most importantly, we want our employees to return home safely to their loved ones. This requires ongoing focus, dedication, vigilance — and your help! Throughout our last big storm, we greatly appreciated your kindness and interest in the work of our crews. However, storm outages often bring long hours with little sleep. We ask that you give space to allow our teams to focus on the task at hand. Even routine work has the potential to be dangerous, and it takes their full attention and that of their colleagues, who are also responsible for the team’s safety. Distractions can have deadly consequences. If a lineworker is on or near your property during a power outage, for vegetation management or routine maintenance, please allow him ample room to work. These small accommodations help protect our crews — and you. In addition to giving lineworkers some space while they are near your property, we also ask that you move over or slow down when approaching a utility vehicle on the side of the road. This is an extra barrier of safety to help those who help all of us. Thank you for allowing us to serve you. It is our pleasure to carry on the excellent service our members began nearly 80 years ago. We look forward to many more years to come.
BRUCE GOSLEE President and CEO
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 ..................... @-$.003330 per kWh
Electric water heaters 50 gallons or larger: • Gas to electric replacement — $125 • New construction water heater — $125 • 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.
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co-op news
Local students receive statewide recognition for their artwork
E
ach year Kosciusko REMC urges students
throughout the area to
StudentArt 2020
COOPERATIVE CALENDAR OF
enter their artwork into a statewide contest sponsored in part by the cooperative. Young artists have a chance to see their artwork published in a statewide calendar distributed to thousands of homes and businesses across Indiana. This year Andrew Zink, an eighth grader at Lakeland Christian Academy, was the first-place winner. The 2020 Cooperative Calendar of Student Art will feature Andrew's artwork. In recognition of this achievement, KREMC's president and CEO, Bruce Goslee, met Andrew at his school to present him with a certificate. Andrew received $200 from Indiana Connection magazine and a special gift from KREMC. Just down the road, another young Kosciusko resident, Phil Carnes, also submitted his artwork to the contest. Phil, a second grader at Lincoln Elementary School, received
Andrew Zink, an eighth grader at Lakeland Christian Academy, poses for a photo with Bruce Goslee, president and CEO of KREMC; Jorie Bail, his art teacher; and Joe Elrod, school administrator. Zink won his age division. His artwork will appear on the August pages of the 2020 Cooperative Calendar of Student Art.
an honorable mention. Phil received $75 from Indiana Connection and a gift from KREMC. "We are so pleased to recognize our young artists and their talents. It is encouraging to see the area schools get involved with programs like this," said Goslee. "We know it wouldn't happen without the teachers. Our gratitude goes to the students' art teachers Jorie Bail and Connie Hunter. We hope to see more students enter the contest each year, and we look forward to recognizing future winners. I have no doubt Kosciusko County has talent in every school and at every age. I can't wait to see what these kids can do." KREMC proudly supports several youth programs like the Calendar Art Contest. It also assists students with the John H. Anglin Scholarship. It sends four sixth graders to summer camp each year, and two high school juniors to Washington, D.C. "These kids are our future," said Goslee. "We make it a point to support them every way we can."
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Phil Carnes and Connie Hunter, his art teacher at Lincoln Elementary School, pose with his honorable mention-winning artwork.
co-op news
Sheri Reeve
Celebrating 45 years of service to KREMC KREMC recognizes
Introducing computers
Sheri Reeve, a dedicated
into the daily functions
employee for 45 years.
of KREMC was a big
Reeve was first introduced to KREMC at a job fair at her school, International Business College in Fort Wayne, when she was a teenager. Hoping to find
step toward change. Though KREMC currently operates with hundreds of computers, Reeve remains an integral part of the KREMC team.
herself in the Warsaw
Through the years, Reeve
area, Reeve applied and
elevated to the billing
began working for KREMC
clerk. She alone bills
as a full-time cashier.
18,000 accounts every
At that time, there were three cashiers. They recorded meter readings and calculated bills by hand. People came into the office to pay their bill with cash and sometimes check. Reeve and her team kept meticulous records to serve KREMC’s then 8,500 members. She recalls when KREMC moved from handwritten statements and calculations to computers. “It was scary,” Reeve said. “We had no training on computers; we were all afraid this technology would replace us.”
month and continues to assist members over the phone. If you have ever called into our office, chances are you’ve spoken to Sheri. Her sweet disposition is a welcomed proponent to the daily functions of KREMC. When asked if she would work 45 years for an electric cooperative if she could do it all over again, Reeve smiled and said, “Absolutely. When I was a kid, I dreamed about working in an office and working with numbers. I get the best of both worlds at KREMC.”
SHERI REEVE Throughout her years at
changed and progressed.
KREMC, Reeve has talked
Reeve has successfully
to thousands of members,
embraced every change
calculated countless bills,
that was put before her
and processed an endless
and mastered new skills
number of service orders.
quickly and seamlessly.
It’s not overstating to say that her role at KREMC has helped shape the cooperative into what it is today. In the past 45 years, KREMC has morphed and
“KREMC is very fortunate to have Sheri. She is a great asset to us,” said Bruce Goslee, president and CEO of KREMC.
JULY 2019
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co-op news
Join us at the fair! Tuesday, July 9, is KREMC Day at the Kosciusko County Fair. Use your Co-op Connections Card to get $1 off of admission! For more information about Co-op Connections, visit kremc.com/service/co-op-connections-card.
KREMC receives safety award Federated Insurance Company recognized KREMC for 358,274 working hours without an incident resulting in lost time. “This is quite a record. It is very impressive. The men and women at KREMC should be very proud,� said Brandon Glasgow from Federated Insurance Company. From left: KREMC President and CEO Bruce Goslee, Brandon Glasgow from Federated Insurance Company and KREMC Manager of Engineering and Operations Kurt Carver pose for a photo with the safety award.
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JULY 2019
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energy
Bigger isn’t always better A larger AC or furnace isn’t always the answer Bigger must be better! This
Proper sizing of your
is a common misconcep-
home’s comfort system is
tion of many homeowners
important. When it’s time to
during the heating and air
install a new heating and air
equipment buying process.
system, whether it’s replac-
Although it may sound at-
ing an existing system or
tractive to size your system
new construction, request
to its largest capacity, from
that your contractor run a
an energy efficiency stand-
heating and cooling load
point it is never a good idea
calculation. Load calcu-
to oversize your furnace or
lations can be computed
air-conditioning unit.
easily with software.
Have you ever noticed the
A homeowner should also
temperature difference in
pay attention to the equip-
the air when humidity is
ment itself. Always check
high vs. low? If humidity is
that the equipment is certi-
removed from the air, you
excessive wear and tear on
severe cases, moisture may
motors and starting com-
drip from walls and mildew
ponents. The life expectan-
may develop. Mold could
cy of a system will decrease
start to grow in the walls
and the efficiency and
and on surfaces. This prob-
operating cost will increase.
lem will leave many home-
This cyclical process is sim-
owners confused. The ther-
ilar to fuel efficiency in an
mostat may have reached
automobile when driving
the desired temperature but
in the city vs. driving down
the homeowner may still
the interstate.
not be comfortable.
uncomfortable and thus
Even though oversized
In the long run
increase the thermostat
systems will satisfy the
The only way that an air
setting.
temperature setting on a
conditioner can remove
HVAC no-nos
thermostat, an oversized air
humidity from a space is by
conditioner that begins to
longer run times. When an
short cycle will not be able
air conditioner runs longer,
to remove humidity from
it has more time for the in-
the home.
door coil, or evaporator, to
feel cooler. This benefits your air-conditioning unit, but not your home’s heating ability. When a furnace is oversized, the air will become excessively dry. Adversely, when an air conditioner is oversized, not enough humidity is removed. In either case, the homeowner will feel
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are not designed to be continually adjusted. They could even short cycle
Over time, the moisture be-
if the homeowner is not
ing left behind will start to
careful. This could result in
become noticeable. In some
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JULY 2019
fied with the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). AHRI ensures that manufacturers accurately list ratings of their products and set standards for consumers to compare equipment. Before purchasing a furnace or air conditioner, remember that the proper size is the key to comfort!
Zach Motsinger
grab moisture out of the air
by
and drain it to the outside.
Energy Advisor Orange County REMC
insights
Calendar contest draws 1,800 entries The 22nd Cooperative Calendar of Student Art Contest drew over 1,800 drawings, paintings and collages from students in grades kindergarten through 12.
One of Indiana’s best now on National Register of Historic Places Turkey Run State Park, named best campground by Indiana Connection readers in its 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards, has been added to the National Register of Historic Places. The Parke County attraction, found-
StudentArt 2020
COOPERATIVE CALENDAR OF
Artist of the Year was Danielle Sommerman, who will be a junior at Crawford County High School this coming fall. Sommerman, from English, Indiana, is a perennial art contest entrant who has won her grade division four times. She illustrated the month of October in this year’s contest. The contest’s winning entries and nine honorable mention selections will be published in the 2020 Cooperative Calendar of Student Art. Evan Olinger from Sellersburg, Indiana, who has won his grade division every year since 2015, will illustrate the month of November in the 2020 calendar. All the calendar art contest first place and honorable mention winners will be recognized at a special art reception to be held in conjunction with the opening of the Hoosier Salon Art Exhibition in August at the Indiana State Museum in Indianapolis. As well, the student art will be displayed in the museum during the Hoosier Salon 2 ½ month-long exhibition. Learn more about the contest, the calendar, and the winning student artists in the October issue of Indiana Connection. Calendars will be available at participating local electric cooperatives and by mail from Indiana Connection in November.
ed in 1916, was recognized for its “unique cultural value to Indiana as well as its national history.” Visitors
Winners:
Honorable mentions:
flock to Turkey Run State Park each
Kindergarten: Charles Quakenbush
Lucy O’Bryan, kindergarten
year to camp, canoe, fish and hike.
First Grade: George Quakenbush
Phil Carnes, second grade
The National Register of Historic
Second Grade: Abby Porter
David White, third grade
Places is compiled by the National
Third Grade: Rileigh Hash
Addie Otte, fourth grade
Park Service, detailing historic places
Fourth Grade: Oliver Lanam
Mia Fang, eighth grade
worth preserving. The park’s Lusk
Fifth Grade: Ashelyn Evans
Clare Kramer, ninth grade
Home and Mill Site had previously
Sixth Grade: Naomi Kujak
Adalia Knakiewicz, ninth grade
been included in the register.
Seventh Grade: Addysen Standish
Erin Starkweather, 10th grade
Turkey Run State Park’s state and
Eighth Grade: Andrew Zink
Trinity Hess, 11th grade
national register certificates will be
Ninth Grade: Morgan Dyck
presented to park representatives
10th Grade: Danielle Sommerman
during the Indiana State Fair in
11th Grade: Evan Olinger
August.
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JULY 2019
12th Grade: Lexi Harford
letters
to the editor CLUSTER OF COLUMN COMPLIMENTS I just read and enjoyed your Cluster of Critters or Hordes of Herds story (by Jack Spaulding in the May issue). I’ve long been fascinated with words that describe groups and you found some good ones. One you probably know is that a group of crows is called a murder of crows. That begs the question: If a group of crows were to split up and members fly off in all directions, should that be described as attempted murder? For what it is worth, the word for words that describe groups is venereal. I don’t know the word for group of venereal words, but thanks for providing an entertaining list of them.
Gerald Wilhite via email
Did you know a group of hippos is referred to as a “bloat”?
My wife and I have enjoyed names of animal groups for years. One of our favorites is a murder of crows. A gaggle of geese always makes us smile. It’s only a gaggle when they’re not flying. Go figure … Thanks for a great article.
Bob Haller, Syracuse
JULY 2019
13
county feature
Harrison County BY NICK ROGERS
Indianapolis may be Indiana’s hub, but the heart of our state’s history hugs the Ohio River just two hours south in Harrison County. Named for William Henry Harrison, who went on to serve as the ninth President of the United States, the county was founded in 1808. Eight years later, on what’s said to have been a sweltering June day, 43 dele-
y t n u o C acts F FOUNDED: 1808
NAMED FOR: William Henry Harrison POPULATION: 39,898 (2017) COUNTY SEAT: Corydon NOTED FOR: The Old Capitol O’Bannon Woods State Park Indiana Caverns Squire Boone Caverns
Dedicated in 2016, Corydon’s Bicentennial Park celebrates the 200th anniversary of Indiana’s statehood, the path to which began in Harrison County. (Photo courtesy of Town of Corydon)
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JULY 2019
A Nature Center-guided Blue River canoe trip at O’Bannon Woods State Park. (Photo courtesy of Indiana Department of Natural Resources)
which occurred July 9, 1863, will be commemorated with historical programming July 13-14 at the Battle of Corydon Memorial Park.
gates convened to craft a constitution
Along the Blue River on Harrison
and transform Indiana from a territo-
County’s western edge and shared
ry to a state.
with its neighboring county, the
The Constitution Elm, under which these delegates gathered, is a top tourist attraction in Corydon — the county seat, which served as Indiana’s initial state capital from 1816
Harrison-Crawford State Forest offers 26,000 acres on which to hike, fish, bike and more. You’ll also find Wyandotte Caves and O’Bannon Woods State Park within the State Forest.
to 1825. The Old Capitol remains a
You can follow the Hoosier Wine Trail,
centerpiece of Corydon’s Historic
which hits seven boutique wineries.
District, with a daylong celebration
And, while in downtown Corydon,
each July with reenactors. Corydon’s
don’t forget to drop by Butt Drugs, a
Bicentennial Park was dedicated in
third-generation family business that
2016 to celebrate Indiana’s statehood.
still charges only 35 cents for a cup of
The city is also home to Indiana’s only Civil War battle, where 450 members of Harrison County’s home guard attempted to delay 2,400 marching Confederate soldiers. The battle,
coffee and, yes, boasts a good sense of humor about its business name. Freelance writer Nick Rogers is a communications manager for Purdue Agricultural Communications.
Indiana eats
Prime Dining The Saratoga: A Terre Haute institution
The Saratoga in Terre Haute
Family-owned restaurants are a rarity
time selections include steaks, chick-
in these days of chain eatery domina-
en, pork chops, pasta and seafood as
tion. But The Saratoga in downtown
well as the overwhelming fan favor-
Terre Haute has been lovingly run by
ite menu item — a delectable prime
the Malooley family since 1942.
rib. But what you might not expect
Back then, Joe Malooley purchased the restaurant from local attorney George Nasser. Nasser was the brother-in-law of Joe’s brother, Abe. When Abe returned home from serving in World War II, he joined Joe in the restaurant business. The Saratoga’s corner location at Fifth Street and Wabash Avenue was the same corner that Abe sold newspapers at when he was a boy. Through
Owner George Azar serves a chocolate martini.
are the Middle Eastern menu choices like Kibby, made with ground beef and bulgur and stuffed with sautéed beef and onions; the Mediterranean staple, falafel, served with all the trimmings on pita bread; and gyros.
THE SARATOGA 431 Wabash Ave.
State Sen. Jon Ford of Terre Haute is
Terre Haute, Indiana
one of Saratoga’s regulars. Besides
812-234-1181
the tasty cooked-to-order food, he appreciates the family-friendly atmosphere and the friendly staff.
Open for lunch: Monday–Saturday Open for dinner: Thursday–Saturday
the years, other family members
Those wanting to treat their guests to
began making their mark at The
The Saratoga experience offsite can
Saratoga. Now, besides Abe’s daugh-
work with the restaurant’s catering
ter, Cathy, and her husband, George
business, Azar’s Catering. Restaurant
ABOUT STATE SEN. FORD:
Azar, their daughter, Alexis, and her
favorites and a wide array of other
Sen. Jon Ford (R)
husband, Dustin Green, are all part of
specialties are available to fit your
represents District 38
The Saratoga family.
food preferences and budget. Like
which covers all of Vigo
The Saratoga, Azar’s Catering has a
County and the northern
The restaurant’s menu is eclectic. Salads and sandwiches, including some innovative takes on burgers and the generously sized breaded tenderloin, comprise the lunch menu. Dinner-
long track record (40 years) of making sure Wabash Valley residents are
portion of Clay County. The small business owner serves on the Ap-
well fed and feeling like they’re part
propriations, Elections,
of the family.
Family and Child Services and Public Policy committees.
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JULY 2019
THE SARATO G A PHO TO S BY M ARTY JO NES
mint
a hint of
cool tastes for hot days
food
food FO O D PREPARED BY I NDI ANA CO NNECT I O N S TA FF PHO TO BY RI CHARD G . B I E V E R
Grilled Zucchini with Mint, Lemon and Feta Marilles Mauer, Greensburg, Indiana 4 medium zucchini, cut on the bias into ½ inch thick slices Olive oil for grilling Sprinkle of kosher salt and ground black pepper Zest of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon 3 T. extra virgin olive oil 2 T. minced fresh mint 5 oz. crumbled feta cheese Preheat a grill or grill pan over high heat. Place the sliced zucchini in a medium bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Toss with your hands until all the zucchini are evenly coated
Chocolate Mint Sandwich Cookies
with oil, salt and pepper. (Make sure you use a generous amount of oil or else the zucchini will stick to the grill.) Add half of the zucchini
Chocolate Mint Sandwich Cookies
to the grill (you’ll probably need a
Ruth Ann King, Warsaw, Indiana
grill basket) or grill pan. Grill for a
1 cup sugar
few minutes on each side until the
⅔ cup butter
zucchini is nicely charred but just
1 egg
tender. Remove to a large bowl and repeat with the second half of the zucchini.
1 t. vanilla ¼ t. mint extract 1½ cups flour ½ cup cocoa
As the zucchini cools, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon
½ t. soda ½ t. salt
juice, extra virgin olive oil and fresh
1 cup finely chopped nuts
mint. Pour over the warm zucchini.
Mint Frosting
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the zucchini and toss to combine. Serve warm or at room temperature.
JULY 2019
fluffy. Add egg and flavorings and beat well. Combine flour, cocoa, soda, and salt and add to mixture mixing well. Chill dough until able to form into two long rolls, each about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in waxed paper and chill until able to slice into about ¼ inch slices. Bake on ungreased baking sheet at 375 F for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, combine ingredients for frosting and beat with a mixer until smooth.
3 T. soft butter 2½ cups powdered sugar
When cookies are cool, place Mint
2½ T. milk
Frosting between two cookies in
¼ t. mint extract
sandwich fashion.
2 drops green food coloring
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Cream sugar and butter until
KIDS DREAM BIG, TRAIN TIRELESSLY TO BE PART OF PERU’S CIRCUS TRADITION STORY BY BRIAN D. SMITH PHOTOS PROVIDED BY HARMON PHOTOGRAPHY INC.
Clowns make the circus world go round. You can count on a brightly adorned JULYzaniness 2019 to each Peru clown crew to add Amateur Youth Circus performance.
20
Under the big top He’s old enough to get the senior discount at Arby’s. But 55-year-old Brian “The Human Fuse” Miser isn’t standing in line for roast beef. He’s on ABC-TV’s “America’s Got Talent,” preparing to be set ablaze and shot through the air from a giant crossbow as a panel of judges and a studio audience watch and gasp. With wife Tina at the controls and daughter Skyler holding the torch, Brian dons protective clothing and PHO TO CO URTESY O F BRI AN M I SER
takes his position on the crossbow just before a 5-second countdown begins. The Fuse is lit – then flung 110 feet onto a massive airbag, emerging safely after a few blasts from a fire extinguisher. Even hypercritical celebrity judge Simon
Brian “The Human Fuse” Miser, who got his start as a Peru Circus performer, competed on “America’s Got Talent” in May. The celebrity judges unanimously catapulted him to the next round of judging.
Cowell is impressed. The smoldering daredevil and his
remarkable is that they honed
circus wagons, calliopes, bands,
wife are no strangers to death-
their circus craft in Peru, Indiana
floats, clowns and even elephants.
defying stunts, having once
(current population: 11,000), where
collaborated in a double human
local kids have been walking high
cannonball act
wires, swinging on trapezes and
for Ringling Bros.
performing other traditional big
and Barnum &
top acts for paying audiences since
Bailey Circus. But perhaps equally
1960.
But the hands-down highlight is the Peru Amateur Youth Circus, featuring 10 three-ring productions at the downtown Circus City Center. Some 160 Miami County youths between 7 and 21 years old
“Everyone else does Little League;
will display talents ranging in com-
we do circus,” explains Cyndi
plexity from basic tumbling to the
Williams, executive secretary of
seven-person pyramid, assembled
Circus City Festival Inc., which will
on a 22-foot high wire.
oversee the 60th installment of Peru’s annual circus heritage celebration from July 13 to 20. The celebration will include carnival rides, food booths and a parade (billed as Indiana’s second-largest behind the 500 Festival’s) with horse-drawn
By festival’s end, the amateur circus will have played to a total audience of perhaps 11,000 while earning scholarship money for college-bound high schoolers with Peru circus experience.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE JULY 2019
21
PEru Circus July 13–20 Circus City Center 154 North Broadway Peru, IN 46970 Order tickets online, at the box office or by calling 765-472-3918.
perucircus.com
Naturally, the young performers
previous two years purchasing the
use safety nets, harnesses, pads
tents, costumes, exotic animals and
and other protective devices. But
other inventory of bankrupt cir-
like high school football players,
cuses – launched one of his own,
they aren’t invulnerable to injury.
the colorfully named “Wallace and
“It happens,” says 14-year-old aeri-
Co.'s Great World Menagerie, Grand
alist Hannah Yoo. “We twist ankles
International Mardi Gras, Highway
all the time. But we’re like, ‘Slap
Holiday Hidalgo and Alliance of
some tape on it and keep practic-
Novelties.”
ing!’”
The operation, later known as the
And while mistakes are rare, Han-
Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, grew to
nah takes them philosophically.
become America’s second-largest
“If you miss, you get up and smile,
circus behind only Ringling Bros.
and you go on with the act,” she
Wallace sold his show in 1913 and
says. “You’ve got to recognize that
died in 1921, but his Peru winter
we are kids, and the stuff we’re
quarters continued to shelter the
doing is hard.”
WHEN THE CIRCUS CAME TO TOWN So how did a children’s circus spring up in this north central Indiana community?
animals and equipment of other traveling circuses, including Ringling Bros., until 1938. Three years later Ringling sold the property and disposed of the remaining circus wagons by torching them. It was a sad final act in a town
Flash back to April 26, 1884, when
known as the Circus Capital of the
local livery stable owner Benjamin
World. But Peru wasn’t ready to
E. Wallace – who had spent the
fold its big top. Efforts to revive the community’s dormant heritage led to Peru’s first circus festival in 1959 and initial amateur youth circus the following year. (Meanwhile, Wallace’s old winter quarters, a National Historic Landmark, are now a museum known as the International Circus Hall of Fame.) Nowadays the circus season begins with a late February “round-up” – a casting call for all would-be performers who meet age and residency requirements. Prospects can sign up for a variety of acts, but there’s no guarantee they’ll
Daring high wire acts are a highlight of the Peru Circus. Veterans of circuses past train the current crop of performers, ensuring that the show will go on for years to come.
22
JULY 2019
be doing them in the show. First cuts, then second cuts await those deemed not ready for prime time.
But there’s almost always a role for everyone, including a kiddie clown act for children as young as 5. “Virtually nobody gets cut out of the show unless they don’t show up,” says executive secretary Williams. Commitment can’t be half-hearted. Practices begin in March and continue several days a week through July, with parents cautioned not to take vacations after May 1. And a handbook outlines the rules, both obvious (no alcohol or drugs on the premises) and not-so-obvious (beige undergarments when in costume; no printed designs). Of course, a circus consists of more
No stranger to flight, ET’s stint in the circus shows a sense of humor mixes well with high wire prowess.
than just the performers. Dozens of volunteers tackle crucial jobs such as ushers, ticket takers, sound and lighting personnel, riggers (set-up crew) and band members. Not to mention the
Circus performers spend countless hours perfecting their routines.
trainers who provide instruction.
TEACH THE CHILDREN WELL “Circus around here is very much a generation-to-generation program,” says Justin Yoo, the 19-year-old brother of Hannah. “Once people are done performing, they’ll come back and train others.” Walking the talk, the young juggler is already teaching his craft to younger kids. The tradition began with retired circus pros such as the legendary Willi Wilno – known professionally as “The Great Wilno, Human Projectile” – who was once blasted from a cannon over the top of a giant Ferris wheel at the 1936
Derring-do and athleticism may be hallmarks of a circus — but so is just plain silliness as only a clown can convey.
New York World’s Fair. After retiring to Peru, Wilno provided expert tutelage to budding aerialists in the early years of the youth circus.
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23
What goes up, goes up again and again. A troupe of jugglers rounds out a multi-talented array of circus acts who will hit the big top in Peru this month.
The progression of rookie circus
round-up as a 7-year-old. (Her
Hannah Yoo continued to stay in
students can surprise even their
parents might have anticipated as
shape, even enrolling in a weight-
parents. “When they start out in
much, since she’d already shocked
lifting class. “And I’ll find myself on
March, they’re like the kid next
them by scaling a 6-foot fence
YouTube, looking up a new trick I
door,” Williams says, “but by show-
at the age of 3.) Her dream never
can do,” she says. “Circus season
time they’re like little professionals.”
died: “I was forbidden to run away
never ends.”
And some Peru kids actually become professionals, finding circus careers with the likes of Circus Circus casino in Las Vegas and Cirque
and join the circus; I had to go to college first,” she says. “So I went to college, and then I ran away and joined the circus.”
Perhaps the most lasting legacy, cited by performers past and present, is the sense of camaraderie, and even family, they share with
du Soleil. Brian Miser, now in his
When her first professional per-
fellow participants in the Peru cir-
38th year as a performer, would not
formance finally came, requiring
cus. “I feel very privileged to have
likely have begun his acrobatic ca-
a 50-foot freefall onto an airbag,
been a part of it, to have raised my
reer at a Ringling Bros. amusement
Tina savored every second of it. “I
children in it, and to now have a
park as a 17-year-old if hadn’t taken
climbed up in the dark, and I was
grandson in it,” says trainer Car-
to the trapeze in Peru. He credits
wearing all black,” she says. “And as
men Bickel.
his hometown circus with instilling
I was sitting on my 1 foot-by-1 foot
a sense of self-confidence and an
platform, I looked out over the en-
appreciation for teamwork.
tire audience below and said, ‘Yes!’”
Similarly, wife Tina recalls that
Current performers also draw moti-
“something resonated” the first
vation from their Peru circus ex-
time she attended the Peru circus
perience. After the last 2018 show,
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JULY 2019
“For a lot of us, circus isn’t something we do,” she says. ”It’s something we are.”
Brian D. Smith is a freelance journalist from Greenwood, Indiana.
JUNE 2019
15
calendar NORTHWEST
3-4
TWELVE MILE 500, Twelve Mile (Cass), Plank Hill Park. 60-lap lawn mower races. Wed: fireworks. Thurs: parade. Admission charge. 765-469-0888. visit-casscounty.com/event/twelve-mile-500-2
6-7
CANAL DAYS, Delphi (Carroll), Canal Park. Canal boat rides, interactive museum, artisan demonstrations, food and music. Fee for some venues. Free admission. 765-564-2870. wabashanderiecanal.org
1821
NORTHERN INDIANA POWER FROM THE PAST, Winamac (Pulaski), 10 City Park Drive. Antique farm machinery in action, food, entertainment, flea market, and farm toy show. $3 gate fee with free parking (a $9 four-day pass is available). Children under 12 free. winamacpowershow.com
CENTRAL
4-6
HAYNES APPERSON FESTIVAL, Kokomo (Howard), Foster Park. Festival celebrates the community’s automotive history and heritage. Food, fireworks, parade, car shows, concerts, sports festival, rides and more. Free. 765-854-1234. haynesappersonfestival.org
FEST, Martinsville 12- ARTIE (Morgan), Courthouse Square. outdoor movie, 13 Entertainment, 5K, craft fair, car show, kids’
2528
activities, cornhole, inflatable park, baby contest, chalk art, food and more. Free. 812-340-2162. artiefest.org
INDIANA FAMILY STAR PARTY, Mulberry (Clinton), Camp Cullom. Amateur astronomers, astronomy enthusiasts, and families can participate in astronomy activities. $5 per person, per day or $15 maximum per carload. 765427-9064. indianastars.com/ starparty
SOUTHWEST
4-7
SHOALS CATFISH FESTIVAL, Shoals (Martin), various locations. Booths, fishing, team and individual sport competitions. Parade, catfish sandwiches and fireworks. Free. 812-631-1329. visitmartincounty.org/ summer-events
6
ABRAHAM LINCOLN FREEDOM FESTIVAL, Rockport (Spencer), Rockport City Park. Car show, food vendors and live music, plus fireworks at dusk. Free. 812-649-9147. IndianasAbeLincoln.org/ events
26
JULY 2019
28
FIRE @ NIGHT IRON POUR, Solsberry (Greene), Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum. Cast iron demonstrations, meet visiting artists, make your own art, walk the trails, fire performances, entertainment, food and more. sculpturetrails. com/calendar
JULY NORTHEAST
6
FIREWORKS BY THE LAKE JAMES ASSOCIATION, Angola (Steuben), Pokagon State Park. For best viewing, sit on the east side of the lawn. Regular gate fees apply. Fireworks will begin at dusk. 260-833-2012. niball@dnr. in.gov.
1820
HAWAIIAN STEEL GUITAR CONVENTION, Winchester (Randolph), Towne Square Community Center. Steel guitar enthusiasts meet, play and dance. Admission charge. 9 am-4 pm daily. 765-584-3266. roamrandolph.com
27
ZANESVILLE LIONS SUMMER FUN FESTIVAL, Zanesville (Allen and Wells), Townwide. Car show, parade, co-ed slow pitch softball tourney, garage sale, food and more. For updates, visit its Facebook page. 260638-4327.
SOUTHEAST
7
SHINER PRIDE CAR SHOW, Rising Sun (Ohio), Downtown. Classic and collectible cars, trucks and motorcycles. Charge to participate. Free for spectators. Proceeds benefit Shiner Pride Marching Band. 812-438-2652. enjoyrisingsun.com
20
BLUEGRASS AT METAMORA OPRY BARN, Metamora (Franklin), The Opry Barn. House band: 6 pm; Appalachian Grass about 6:30 or 7 pm. Admission, $8. 513-607-1874. fotmc@iglou. com. metamorampa.org/ bluegrass-nights-at-the-oprybarn
27
BLUEGRASS ON THE SQUARE, Corydon (Harrison), Downtown. Bluegrass music by Hog Operation and Ida Clare. 4-8 pm. Free. thisisindiana.org/ bluegrass
This calendar is published as a service to readers and the communities electric cooperatives serve. Indiana Connection publishes events free of charge as space allows, giving preference to free community festival and events in and around areas served by subscribing REMCs/RECs. While Indiana Connection strives for accuracy, please note that events, dates and time may change without notice. Indiana Connection advises using contact phone numbers or internet sites to check times and dates of events before making plans. To add events to Calendar, please use the “Submit and Event” form under the “Talk to Us” or “Calendar” buttons at indianaconnection.org; or mail your info to: Calendar, Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240. Please submit info two months before the date of the event.
JULY 2019
27
do-it-yourself
cool KEEPING IT
How to recharge your car’s AC system
As the summer heat beats down,
and with a belt) and the evaporator
we want our homes and vehicles
(a large aluminum can). If in doubt,
to keep us cool. But what
consult your service manual or local
happens when your car’s AC
auto parts store.
system isn’t working properly?
stepATTACH2THE
For those willing to tackle a DIY project, there are some steps you can take to recharge your auto’s AC. First, purchase a charge kit for your car. Consult your local auto parts store for the appropriate one for your vehicle. Then, take the following steps, courtesy of DIY Network, to get your car back to being cool and comfortable.
stepFIND1THE LOW SIDE PORT
REFRIGERANT
Screw the dispenser hose and gauge onto the can of refrigerant. Attach to the low side port by pulling back the outer slip ring, pushing it on, and releasing the ring. Next, start the engine, turn the A/C system on max, and check the gauge reading.
refrigerant instructions for the proper system pressure. Continue dispensing refrigerant and rechecking the pressure until the desired level is reached.
stepCHECK4FOR
MINOR LEAKS
If you bought a UV kit, check the system for minor leaks so repairs
compressor should be spinning. If
can be made if necessary. Use the
the pressure is lower than 20 psi and
UV pen and examine all valves and
the compressor is not engaged, then
junction points in the system.
A/C system. This will be the barb
engages. Be sure to shake the can
on the larger tube between the
first and every 3-4 seconds later.
JULY 2019
Consult the pressure chart in the
be engaged and the front of the
dispense refrigerant until the clutch
28
DISPENSING REFRIGERANT
The compressor clutch should
Next, find the low side port of your
compressor (mounted to the engine
stepCONTINUE 3
Source: DIYNetwork.com
irrigation
information
WATER AND ELECTRICITY WORKING TOGETHER No one will argue that Indiana
informing farmers about irrigation
weather can be unpredictable. A
equipment safety is imperative.
long-term drought could be overtaken by major flooding all in the course of days. During the spring and summer, farmers are growing their crops and rainfall is needed to sustain proper crop growth and development. Because Indiana has different types of soil, irrigation equipment becomes a necessity for many.
Though they do not mix, water and electricity can work together if you follow safe work practices: • Proper equipment selection and installation methods: The system should be wired to the standards of the National Electrical Code: it must have disconnect switches; it must use equipment and enclosures suitable for conditions; it must pro-
• Safe work practices: Turn off the power before working on an irrigation system. Be aware of overhead power lines when working with irrigation pipes, when standing on systems and when spraying water near power lines. Avoid wearing loose clothing and tie back long hair
Operating pumps and other
tect wires from physical damage
equipment in a damp environment
or use “jacketed” irrigation cable;
increases the chance of equipment
and it must have circuit and
Your main goal is to not allow
failure. Because the farmers
equipment grounding.
yourself to become a path for elec-
themselves may be rain-soaked and muddy, their vulnerability to electric shock is much greater. As you’ve heard many times before,
• Routine maintenance checks:
when near rotating equipment.
tricity.
Proactively look for faulty
If you have more questions about
equipment and proper wiring
preventing electrical hazards, con-
installation.
tact your electric co-op.
water and electricity don’t mix so JULY 2019
29
backyard
Tick Talk Time BY TIMOTHY J. GIBB It is tick talk time. When I say “tick talk,” I am not referring to a timekeeping device, such as a watch or a clock. I am simply pointing out it is the best time to discuss ticks and their potential danger. Most people have had the disagreeable experience of finding a tick attached to their skin — or worse, finding it sucking their blood. These are never pleasant experiences, but tick dangers go well beyond just being a nuisance; well beyond being gross, disgusting and unpleasant; well beyond just the mark or the itchy welt that is left behind. Tick bites are potentially life-altering. Ticks transmit several very serious diseases to people as well as pets and other animals. It is important to know how, when and where ticks appear and how diseases are transmitted so that you can avoid them, prevent them from biting where possible and deal with them if they do bite. Talking about ticks now will increase your protection and peace of mind. Here are 10 tips for individuals who want to enjoy time spent out in nature but not join the ticks’ lunch group.
1 2 3 30
4
5 6 7 8 9
Be aware of where and when black-legged ticks are active. Discourage ticks from biting by wearing insect repellent (DEET), especially from May through July. Permethrin applied to shoes and pants kills or stuns ticks that touch the treated fabric, thus providing additional protection.
JULY 2019
10
Circumvent ticks that drop onto shoes from crawling to bare skin by wearing long pants and shirt sleeves and by tucking your pants into your socks. This outfit may raise eyebrows from fashionconscious friends and neighbors, but if you carry along a golf club or bag, they will probably just shrug and forget all about it.
Ask
ROSIE Fern is healthier than it appears
Use veterinary-prescribed tick control measures on pets. Thoroughly check yourself for ticks when you come in from the outdoors. Remember that the ticks may be quite small. Wear light-colored clothing so that the ticks are most obvious to the naked eye. A quick, soapy shower will wash off ticks if they have not already cemented themselves onto your skin. Ticks must be attached for at least 36 hours to spread Lyme disease, so remove ticks as soon as possible by pulling them straight out with tweezers. Request a blood test from your doctor if you develop a fever, unusual headaches, fatigue, neck pain, or stiffness in muscles and joints after being in tick-infested areas. A red, bulls-eye shaped rash at the site of the bite is sometimes diagnostic.
Photo provided by K.G., Fort Wayne, Indiana
I received a potted fern as a gift from a friend, and it has done well in my home for over a year. But now it has what looks like a fungus on the bottom side of the leaves. Is there anything I can apply to prevent this from killing my plant? The growths on your fern are not from a fungus. They are fern spore cases and are not harmful to the plant. Unlike flowering plants, ferns reproduce by spores rather than seed. Spore cases (sporangia) are produced on the bottom side of the fronds; each case contains numerous spores. Gardeners sometimes mistake the spore cases for either a disease or insect pest but these are normal reproductive structures for ferns. 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,” Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606, or use the form at IndianaConnection.org.
Wabash Valley Power news
escaping — and hot air from seeping indoors. From there, ensure your home
Stay comfy this summer– and save!
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.
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL ELECTRIC CO-OP TO SCHEDULE AN ENERGY AUDIT. This is
outdoor temperatures — and energy
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES WILL ENSURE EFFICIENCY! Schedule an
bills with it! Rather than perpetually
annual inspection and maintenance to
efficiency. Your local cooperative will
running your air conditioner, some
get the most out of your home’s heating
have a list of contractors conducting
strategic planning can save you energy,
and cooling systems. Also, be sure to
energy audits in your area; your
leading to lower electric use. Steps you
regularly replace your furnace filter —
co-op may even provide the audit
can take to reduce your energy costs
this single step can ensure your system
for you. An energy audit will include
are to:
runs efficiently, minimizing energy
a thorough review and testing of
waste and saving you money.
electricity use in your home, along with
The summer sun quickly drives up
OPEN THE WINDOWS ON COOL SUMMER EVENINGS AND NIGHTS. A cool breeze
a great way to learn about your home’s
recommendations on how to improve your home’s efficiency.
you comfortable without the need for
SET A ROUTINE SCHEDULE FOR YOUR PROGRAM MABLE THERMOSTAT TO PREVENT WASTING ENERGY. Constantly
turning on the air conditioner.
changing the temperature settings on
energy use and bill during the summer and
your thermostat can cause your air
even year-round. To learn more energy-
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.
conditioner to work much more than
saving tips, visit www.PowerMoves.com.
Reducing the sun’s heat will reduce the
and Ecobee
energy needed to cool your home.
thermostats,
in the evening and overnight can keep
needed — wasting energy and costing you money! Newer “smart” thermostats, such as the Nest
include tools
TURNING ON FANS IN YOUR HOUSE CAN REDUCE ENERGY NEEDED TO MAINTAIN COMFORT. The Department of Energy
such as energy
reports that a ceiling fan in the room will
controls to help
allow you to raise the thermostat up to
you use your HVAC
4 degrees Fahrenheit while maintaining
system as efficiently
the same level of comfort. But turn the
as possible.
reports and smart phone
fan off when you are done! The couch doesn’t need to be kept cool after you
SEAL. INSULATE. EQUIP.
leave the room. Treat fans just like lights
three keys to maximize your efficiency!
— be sure to turn the fan off when you
Start by sealing any air leaks in your
leave the room.
house to prevent your chilled air from
32
JULY 2019
These are
Taking a few extra steps can reduce your
travel
No run of the ‘mill’ park BY NICK ROGERS Spring Mill State Park boasts the usual activities, campsites and trails (eight to be exact, ranging from 1/3 to 2½ miles). But most parks don’t serve food using cornmeal made from an active, 202-year-old mill. And you’d be hard-pressed to find NASA spacecraft near nature elsewhere. On 1,358 acres about 3 miles from Mitchell, Ind., Spring Mill State Park offers plentiful activities for year-round visitors. Most attractions date back to the Civilian Conservation Corps, a 1930s public work relief program, and the land is notable for large quantities of limestone. From that limestone formed several cave systems, including The Cerulean Warbler is just one wildlife species that enjoys Spring Mill State Park’s lush flora.
Twin Caves — through which boat tours operate daily through mid-July and on weekends from mid-August to mid-October. For $3, riders can enjoy a 500-foot exploration and maybe observe rare cave-dwelling animals. The Pioneer Village offers 20 buildings to explore and heritage interpreters of life circa 1863. It’s also the site of the three-story limestone gristmill that makes the cornmeal. (Eager to try some? Scan the menu at the Spring Mill Inn’s Millstone Dining
P H OTO B Y MA R TY JON E S
Room.) The park’s Nature Center features displays of six native snakes, bird-watching stations, children’s activities and more. No matter the season, the Grissom Memorial honors the legacy
SPRING MILL STATE PARK
of Virgil “Gus” Grissom. A Mitchell native, Grissom was one of
3333 State Road 60 E. Mitchell, IN
the second American in space. Alongside history of Grissom’s
812-849-3534 www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2968.htm
Grissom took his final spaceflight on the Gemini 3 mission.
America’s first astronauts (in the Mercury Seven) and became achievements, you can see the “Molly Brown,” in which
A private space-artifact collection display on July 20 — the moon landing’s 50th anniversary — in honor of Grissom is among several events at Spring Mill State Park this summer,
THINGS TO DO: Hike; bike; tour the caves; swim; explore the Nature Center and Nook, Grissom Memorial and Pioneer Village
including: • Christmas in July (July 26-28) • Vintage Camper Rally (Aug. 16-18) • Fiber Arts Weekend (Aug. 31-Sept. 2)
Freelance writer Nick Rogers is a communications manager for Purdue Agricultural Communications. JULY 2019
33
profile
Astronaut Neil A. Armstrong, commander of the Apollo 11 Lunar Landing mission, poses for his official portrait in his space suit.
Lunar Legend Purdue alumni play key roles in U.S. space program
Fifty years ago this month, a man on the moon joined the man in the moon, pressing a human footprint onto the grainy gray lunar surface for the first time in history. Neil Armstrong’s July 20, 1969 milestone step (he was soon accompanied by fellow astronaut Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin) came 6½ hours after the Apollo 11 lunar module, Eagle, touched down in the not-sodamp Sea of Tranquility – prompting Armstrong’s memorable radio announcement: “Houston, Tranquility Base here. The Eagle has landed.” Armstrong and Aldrin fulfilled the dream of President John F. Kennedy, who declared in 1961 that America should commit itself to landing a man on the moon by the end of the decade. Their monumental accomplishment inspired (and inspires) not only national pride, but state and collegiate pride in Indiana. Armstrong was a 1955 graduate of Purdue University who never forgot his alma mater. “Neil did not sign autographs after he found them being sold online for thousands of dollars,” says space historian John Norberg, a former Purdue director of communications for development. “But on campus, he stopped and posed for photos with anyone who asked.”
34
PHO TO CO URTESY O F NASA
BY BRIAN D. SMITH
Moonstruck The contribution of Purdue alumni to the U.S. space program is immeasurable. Norberg, author of the recently released “Ever True: 150 Years of Giant Leaps at Purdue University,” notes that two dozen Purdue graduates, including Armstrong, have become NASA astronauts, and a 25th is in training. Hundreds of others have worked in the space industry, among them the first female commercial astronaut, Beth Moses, who flew aboard a Virgin Galactic suborbital spaceplane in February.
Whether you prefer small steps or giant leaps, you can celebrate the golden anniversary of the first moon landing this month without ever leaving Earth’s atmosphere. Purdue University will host a July 18 talk by NASA Flight Director Gene Kranz titled "‘Go or No-Go’: The Untold Story of the Apollo 11 Moon Landing.” Kranz is best known as the “Failure is not an option” character played by Ed Harris in the
But the Purdue presence experienced its most magic and tragic moments in the moonbound Apollo program. Behind Armstrong’s triumphant tread was the star-crossed preflight test of Apollo 1, which claimed the lives of three astronauts, including Purdue graduates Virgil “Gus” Grissom and Roger Chaffee. Twelve men walked on the moon, the last – Apollo 17’s Gene Cernan – in 1972. He, too, earned his bachelor’s degree from Purdue. BRIAN D. SMITH IS A FREELANCE JOURNALIST FROM GREENWOOD.
JULY 2019
Where to go to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing
movie “Apollo 13” (although the real Kranz never said it). A daylong slate of campus happenings will mark the July 20 anniversary, including a display of Purdue grad Neil Armstrong’s personal papers: https:// engineering.purdue.edu/Apollo11 Elsewhere on July 20, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis will hold an Apollo 50th Anniversary Celebration, and the Ferdinand (Ind.) Branch Library will welcome volunteer NASA Solar System Ambassador Amanda Scurry to its Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Party.
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FEBRUARY 2019