New CW REMC programs available.
Carroll White REMC’s
OUT-OFTHE-BOX
INNS From a calaboose to a caboose, Indiana offers unique places to stay
PAGES
22–26
OCTOBER 2021
from the editor
Pumpkin and spice and everything nice? Eighteen years ago, Starbucks unleashed pumpkin spice lattes on the world, and autumns have never been the same. Who’d have thought a fruit formerly famous strictly for its guises as jack-o’-lanterns and Thanksgiving table pies would suddenly become a worldwide obsession — and continue to be fall’s flavor of choice. Pumpkin and the aromatic mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves and allspice that are so crucial to pumpkin pie’s signature taste have since popped up not just in other foods, but in products of all kinds. Some make sense; others have me wondering “why?” Pumpkin spice cereal is one of my favorite autumn indulgences. I buy extra boxes just so I can enjoy them months later. Though I haven’t tried them yet, I “get” how pumpkin spice bagels, cream cheese spread, candy and Twinkies would have a fan base. But macaroni and cheese? Last year, Kraft packaged a limited number of mac and cheese dinners (available only through a sweepstakes promotion) with pumpkin spice augmenting the usual powdered cheese. Hormel, meanwhile, introduced pumpkin spiced SPAM a couple of years ago. It sold out in hours, either eagerly scooped up by curious foodies or fans of SPAM’s undeniable kitsch factor. A 12-oz. can of it now goes for as much as $150 on eBay. Folks majorly obsessed with all things pumpkin spice can start their day with products like flavored toothpaste, deodorant, cologne and lip balm. And those needing a jolt stronger than pumpkin spice coffee can get their pumpkin spice fix (hopefully later in the day) in various alcoholic beverages. Later this month, pumpkin spice will make its debut appearance in Nissin brand instant ramen noodles. “For the full pumpkin spice experience,” a company spokesman actually suggests, “top it with whipped cream.” Really? Whipped cream atop a container of noodles is taking the pumpkin spice craze a tad too far! I think if I dollop whipped cream on anything it will be on a good old fashioned slice of pumpkin pie!
EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@indianaec.org
On the menu: February issue: Noodles, deadline Dec. 1. March issue: Potato chips, deadline Dec. 1. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.
Giveaways: Enter to win a prize package from Greater Rensselaer Chamber of
Commerce (value $75). For details and to enter, visit indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/ contests. Entry deadline: Oct. 29.
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 4 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. CONTACT US: 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600 Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606 317-487-2220 info@indianaconnection.org IndianaConnection.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS: Walter Hunter President Randy Kleaving Vice President Steve McMichael 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 Taylor Maranion Senior Brand and Visual 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. 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.
OCTOBER 2021
3
contents
OCTOBER
14
17
energy
03 FROM THE EDITOR 05 CO-OP NEWS Energy news and information from your electric cooperative. 12 INSIGHTS 14 ENERGY How to avoid being haunted by frightening energy bills.
29
food
16 COUNTY OF THE MONTH Spotlighting Jasper County. 17 FOOD Pizza party. 20 INDIANA EATS Pizzerias that are “all in the family.” 22 COVER STORY Out-of-the-box inns: Unique places to stay in Indiana.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Indiana Connection
34
safety
28 CALENDAR 29 SAFETY Electrical overloads: Unloading the circuit. 30 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS 32 BACKYARD
profile
33 TRAVEL All aboard for chili. (Not in all editions) 34 PROFILE Diana Martinez’s professional progression. (Not in all editions)
Spotlight on herbaceous perennials. (Not in all editions)
On the cover There’s a new sheriff in town! Patty Hawley welcomes “inmates” to the Old Jail Inn, a unique place to stay in Rockville that served as the Parke County jail for 120 years. Hawley bought the inn from its original owner early this year and moved to Indiana from Nevada. PHOTO BY RICHARD G. BIEVER
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OCTOBER 2021
co-op news “This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.” CARROLL WHITE REMC P.O. Box 599; Monticello, IN 47960 800-844-7161 (Toll Free) www.cwremc.coop MONTICELLO OFFICE 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday DELPHI OFFICE 7:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday EMAIL info@cwremc.coop CEO Randy W. Price BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kevin M. Bender, 219-863-6652 4280 W, 700 N, Delphi
Margaret E. Foutch, 219-279-2677 7535 W, 500 S, Chalmers
Gary E. Gerlach, 574-595-7820 9833 S. Base Road, Star City
Kent P. Zimpfer, 765-479-3006
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE
4672 E. Arrow Point Court, Battle Ground
Tina L. Davis, 219-204-2195 7249 W, 600 S, Winamac
Ralph H. Zarse, 219-863-6342
We celebrate the 19-year career of Meter Technician Tom Thomas as he retires from Carroll White REMC.
1535 S, 100 E, Reynolds
Tom, left, receives his certificate for his 19 years of service from CEO Randy Price.
Aaron Anderson, 765-427-5592
Tom began his career on March 11, 2002. He completed countless hours of training
6634 W, 300 S, Delphi
and received certifications through the Great Lakes Electric Meter School (GLEMS)
MISSION STATEMENT “Creatively enhancing our community through safety and service.”
Safety, Service, and Community IMPORTANT DATES Cycle 1 September bills are due Oct. 5 and are subject to disconnect Oct. 26 if unpaid. Cycle 2 September bills are due Oct. 20 and are subject to disconnect Nov. 9 if unpaid. Meters are read using the Automated Meter Reading system. Cycle 1 meters will be read on Oct. 1. Cycle 2 meters will be read Oct. 15.
SAVE ENERGY AND MONEY Shut the door on wasted energy by weather stripping and sealing all exterior doors. If you have an old exterior door, consider replacing it with a newer, energy efficient model. — U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ carrollwhite.remc FOLLOW US ON TWITTER www.twitter.com/cwremc
as well as through ACLARA and Brownstown Electric Supply. We thank Tom for his years of service to the membership and congratulate him on this great milestone. Enjoy retirement!
podcast Check out our new
SEARCH ‘CARROLL WHITE NEWS & NOTES’ ON SPOTIFY OR APPLE ITUNES
Learn about what’s happening at Carroll White REMC and in our communities. We will chat with our energy advisor about ways to be more energy efficient and save money on your monthly bill. OCTOBER 2021
5
co-op news
NEW CW REMC PROGRAMS AVAILABLE OUTAGE INFO SPECIFICALLY FOR YOU This summer, Carroll White REMC introduced a new text feature which provides members with outage information targeted to their location. (The previous text program’s alerts weren’t location-specific.) Here’s how to sign up to receive these outage alerts: 1. You must be signed up for SmartHub.
MAKING GEOTHERMAL MORE AFFORDABLE Are the upfront costs of installing a geothermal heat pump keeping you from switching your home or business to this energy-efficient heating and cooling system? Carroll White REMC’s new Looped In program is here to help you!
2. Go to “Contact Methods” to make sure you are text enrolled. 3. Go to “Manage Notifications.” 4. Go to “Outages or Service Related.” 5. Go to “Power Outage and Power Outage Restored” and enable your cell phone number. 6. Make sure to hit “Save” at the bottom of each screen. You can enter more than one cell number and email in this process.
Carroll White REMC will pay to have a member’s loop system installed. The REMC will own the loop portion and will add a small rider to your monthly bill for your use of the loop. The process: • Call our energy advisor, Joe Spear, at 800-844-7161 to set up a home visit. • After consulting with Spear, you will select a licensed contractor to install the geothermal system and sign the necessary agreements and paperwork so work on the project can begin.
YOUR PROJECT PARTNER Are those money-saving energy
• Building envelope improvements
• Carroll White REMC will select a contractor for the loop installation.
efficiency projects on your to do list
• HVAC systems
• Post construction, Carroll White REMC will ensure all the work was done as expected and will finalize all rebates. A copy of the geothermal installation invoice from the member’s approved contractor will be required.
can help!
• Our billing department will then add the monthly lease fee to your electric bill.
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OCTOBER 2021
too daunting? Carroll White REMC
Partnership for Efficiency provides low interest loans to rural families
• Heat pump water heaters • Motors • Appliance upgrades
and small businesses to help them
• Compressed air systems
with their energy efficiency projects.
• Boilers, dryers, heaters, and
Energy efficiency projects/ replacements may include: • Lighting improvements
process related equipment • Other activities and investments directly related to efficiency
ENTER THE VIRTUAL LOBBY You’re invited to visit our new Carroll White REMC Virtual Lobby Experience! While COVID-19 has limited our in-person interactions over the past year, through our new virtual lobby our customers can safely visit and engage with Carroll White REMC from anywhere!
What is a Virtual Lobby? The Virtual Lobby allows us to connect with our customers in a unique and safe way. The lobby’s tools and resources inform our customers about diverse topics in a fun, engaging way. You’ll find: • An interactive home energy use tool
ENTER THE VIRTUAL LOBBY AT
How does it work?
VIRTUALLOBBY.CWREMC.COOP
Explore all that Carroll White REMC provides in your community with just a few clicks. Almost every element of this virtual town has a pop up with more information, including interactive tools and engaging videos.
• Easy-to-understand guide to electric vehicles • An explanation of how your power is generated • Ways to save on your heating and cooling costs • And so much more!
Here’s how Partnership for Efficiency works: 1. Member must contact our energy advisor, Joe Spear, to schedule a free energy audit. 2. Member should fill out the application. 3. A credit check is done to determine the loan amount. 4. Upon approval, the member chooses a licensed contractor to perform the work. 5. After the work is completed, the
Changing with technology Technology continues to evolve which affects our personal and work lives. This includes the way Carroll White REMC (CW REMC) members interact with us. As more and more members do business electronically and virtually, we are responding to meet their changing needs. Beginning in mid-December 2021, the Delphi front office will have a new virtual Member Services Representative (MSR) and a Virtual Lobby. Currently, many members are using a kiosk and dropbox in this location. To best accommodate members’ needs, the front office will be open an hour longer each day from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There is simply no question that COVID-19 greatly slowed down the amount of front office and counter traffic in both CW REMC offices. To meet this changing flow, we will be moving the MSR from the Delphi front counter to Monticello. There will be no reduction in staffing. All CW REMC MSRs will maintain their positions. Today, members are using alternative payment methods, such as AutoPay, Pay by Phone or SmartHub to interact with us. In the past three years, we added nearly 1,300 members to SmartHub, bringing the total number of members utilizing this convenient payment method to over 6,200. That is over half of all CW REMC members! This number continues to grow monthly. We are confident members will appreciate our new option to pay bills. Carroll White REMC is partnering to use InComm Payment locations. Members can pay their CW REMC bills while they are out in the community. This will be a cash only method of paying your bill. InComm Payment allows in-person payment at retail locations, even in small communities inside and outside our service territory. This option also provides extended retail store hours for members’ convenience.
member contacts our energy advisor
Find retailers at pay.vanilladirect.com/pages/locations?mapOnlyRetailer=.
to perform another energy audit to
For more information, contact Carroll White REMC at 800-844-7161 or by email at info@cwremc.coop.
validate the energy efficiency was achieved. 6. Carroll White REMC pays the contractor. 7. Carroll White REMC adds the monthly loan charge to the
InComm Payment Locations
• Family Dollar
• Speedway
• Dollar General
• Kum & Go
• CVS Pharmacy
• Kwik Trip
• 7 Eleven
• Walgreens
• Pilot Travel Centers • Go Mart Inc.
member’s electric bill. OCTOBER 2021
7
co-op news
CARROLL WHITE REMC STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print,
welcoming
NEW EMPLOYEES
Miller looks forward to making an impact at co-op Every day that a groundman goes to work, he makes an impact on his electric utility. Logan Miller, who began working at Carroll White REMC as a groundman in August, is looking forward to making an impact on the job now — and into the future. “I’m a good communicator and a hard worker,” he said. “I look forward to serving my community working at Carroll White REMC. I plan to make a lifelong career here.”
LOGAN MILLER
Born, raised and residing in Delphi, Miller is a 2021 Delphi Community High School graduate. “I was an active 4-H member,” the son of Jeremy and Andrea Miller said. His favorite 4-H project was shooting sports. No stranger to hard work, Miller worked for area farmers while he was growing up. His work ethic prepared him well for his position at the REMC. “A groundman does not work in the air, but they assist line workers by digging holes, lifting poles and raising needed equipment to linemen,” CW REMC CEO Randy W. Price, a former lineworker said. “Their contribution promotes efficiency and productivity in keeping our system maximized to optimal performance.” Miller’s hobbies include bow fishing and working on cars.
audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at 800-877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at www.usda.gov/oascr/how-to-file-a-programdiscrimination-complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call 866-632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1)
mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Office of the Assistant Secretary
1400 Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC 20250-9410;
for Civil Rights
(2)
fax: 202-690-7442; or
(3)
email: program.intake@usda.gov.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
Randle brings strong work ethic to REMC Perseverance is a key attribute of an REMC groundman. These outside crew members don’t stop working until the work is done. It’s fitting that the favorite book of one of Carroll White REMC’s newest employees, Avery Randle, is “Can’t Hurt Me.” That book features the following quote: “I don’t stop when I’m tired. I stop when I’m done.” An 2014 graduate of Twin Lakes High School, Randle began working at CW REMC in August. Previously, he served in the
U.S. Army for four years as a tank crewman, stationed in Fort Riley, Kansas, and at Camp Casey in South Korea. Randle is currently finishing his contract with the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR). If needed, the IRR can be called upon to replace soldiers on active duty and in Army Reserve units. Following his stint in the Army, Randle worked as a truck driver at Fox Hauling, as an assistant lead carpenter at Custom Home Medic and as a union laborer at Local #274. Randle also served as an apprentice lineman at ARC American, an electrical construction contractor. Randle’s work experience has been helpful in his new position at the REMC. “The military gave me the chance to learn how to deal with high stress situations quickly and efficiently,” he said. “Working on the contract side of line work taught me there are several ways to do a job or task. I’m looking forward to learning and gaining knowledge for the career path ahead of me at CW REMC.” He and wife Alivia, a sales associate at Cintas, live in Monticello. The couple is expecting a baby in January. Randle is a member of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers.
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OCTOBER 2021
AVERY RANDLE WITH HIS WIFE, ALIVIA
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insights
editor
LETTER TO THE
THANKS FOR THE ARTICLE
Thank you so much for the wonderful article about our business in the July issue of Indiana
Tell us about your Christmas traditions
Connection. You should be very proud of the professional job you do with your publication. We look forward to its arrival each month and read it cover to cover. Having our business highlighted in such a
The countdown to Christmas has begun. And now’s the time to share what makes your family’s Christmas so special.
well written piece is a special treat.
Our December issue will showcase our readers’ favorite holiday traditions with their friends and family. We’d also love to see your photos from Christmases past that illustrate what you love the best about your seasonal celebrations.
Larry Stewart and staff Weenee World
Deadline to send us your stories and photos is Oct. 29. If we publish your submission, we’ll send you a check for $50. We’ll also send $50 to a randomly selected reader with a tradition to share. Our address: Indiana Connection, Holiday Traditions, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240. You can also submit your tradition to us online at www.indianaconnection.org/tell-us-what-makes-yourchristmas-special.
Again, thank you.
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.
HELP CHANGE THE WORLD WITH A SINGLE TICKET Raffle benefits Project Indiana initiative Empowering global communities takes commitment, passion, hard work … and money. To help fund its fifth trip to bring electricity and a better way of life to rural Guatemala, Project Indiana — the philanthropic partnership between Indiana’s electric cooperatives and supporters like you — is holding a raffle. Twenty prizes are available including Big Green Egg and pellet grills, getaway packages, a chainsaw and an autographed football from the Indianapolis Colts.
12
OCTOBER 2021
The raffle is limited to 300 tickets being sold at $100 each. The drawing will be held on Oct. 20. Winners will be contacted after the drawing. To purchase tickets, send a check made out to “Project Indiana” to Project Indiana Raffle, Indiana Electric Cooperatives, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240. Contact Mandy Barth at mbarth@indianaec.org for more information about the raffle and Project Indiana.
WE CLOSE LOANS IN 30 DAYS GUARANTEED! Local Loan Originators We Lend in 48 States Loan Program Variety Low and No Down Payment Competitive Rates JWeingart@ WaterstoneMortgage.com
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OCTOBER 2021
13
energy
plan now to avoid being haunted by
FRIGHTENING energy bills
T
he arrival of ghoulish costumes and
creatures to your door this Halloween has nothing on
be causing conditioned
insulation. By adding
The best way to diagnose
the lurking horror of high
air to escape. You should
insulation properly, your
issues in your home is to
energy bills this fall and
search for and seal
HVAC system will have
schedule an energy audit.
winter.
any air leaks. The most
to work less to maintain
You can contact your
important leaks to seal are
the temperature in
local electric cooperative’s
With the autumn weather
in your attic and down
your house, saving you
energy advisor for details.
temperatures dropping,
low in your basement or
electricity and money.
Your co-op may even
you may have noticed
crawlspace. Framing and
your house feeling colder
places where plumbing
than you remembered
or electrical wiring or
last year. Or, you may
ducts poke through the
have been reminded
ceiling also need to be
that your HVAC system
checked. Sealing air leaks
isn’t working the way
keeps your warm, cozy air
you liked. To avoid being
inside.
plagued by scary energy
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE PROPER SYSTEMS TO HEAT AND COOL YOUR HOME. After you have sealed air leaks and properly insulated your home, you can check into new equipment. Now that some of your home’s
can ensure that you’re
PROPERLY INSULATE YOUR HOUSE TO MAXIMIZE COMFORT. This step
prepared for extreme
should be taken after
equipment to properly
weather:
sealing air leaks. Air
heat and cool your home.
leaking through the
A smaller, right-sized and
SEAL AIR LEAKS TO PREVENT DRAFTS. If
insulation decreases
more energy-efficient
its benefits. If part of
system will increase
your home feels chilly,
your HVAC’s ductwork
electricity savings,
then creepy crawlies may
is located in the attic
helping your wallet well
not be the only things
space, it is especially
into the future.
hiding in your attic or
important to seal that
crawlspace! Air leaks may
ductwork and bury it in
bills, three words – seal, insulate, and equip –
14
OCTOBER 2021
issues are resolved,
be able to provide the audit, which includes recommendations on steps you can take to improve your home’s energy efficiency. You can get an idea of what options – and rebates – are out there to keep you comfortable all year long!
you may need smaller
by
Jake Taylor
Energy Advisor LaGrange County REMC
ADVERTISEMENT
county feature
PHO TO S CO URTESY O F VI SI T I NDI ANA
Jasper County Most towns have a mural or two depicting aspects of the town’s history or famous residents. But Jasper County has turned itself into a giant art gallery for murals — painted on buildings throughout the county seat of Rensselaer. Beginning with just one mural a half dozen years ago, Rensselaer now hosts an annual mural festival — RenARTWlk — attracting artists from around Indiana, the nation, and the world. Some 40 giant works of art have brought a kind of renaissance to Rensselaer’s once staid downtown. “It’s done a great thing to give Rensselaer an identity,” said Ryan Preston, an artist and contractor who, with his wife, founded 181 Properties. He was contracted to restore a dilapidated building in Rensselaer and turn it into a restaurant and event venue. Preston brought Cameron Moberg, a San Francisco-based muralist, into town to do the mural. Moberg ended up falling in love with the community and was soon bringing in muralists from around the world for the festival he helped organize three summers ago. “Cameron just thought it was just such an awesome place. Hoosier hospitality definitely won him over
and has won over all the artists that come to visit,” Preston said. Rensselaer’s fortuitous location on Interstate 65 midway between Chicago and Indianapolis has made for a meeting ground amid the brew houses, restaurants, and boutiques that have been popping up. “There’s a lot more business going on now that is geared toward creative outlets,” Preston added. “Rensselaer is becoming a place that is very motivated to decorate time with music and decorate space with art.” In addition, the towns of Remington to the south and DeMotte to the north, as well as several other small towns in neighboring counties, have also joined in the hosting murals. “I don’t think we really realized the impact,” Preston said. “But we brought in some artists and got some buildings painted. And we started noticing how the buildings looked much fresher and lively. We started seeing people come to town to view these murals, and they made a day of it. So, it was something that gave a lot of pride to the people that live in Rensselaer.” The area arts groups and economic development organizations soon
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OCTOBER 2021
County Facts FOUNDED: 1838 NAMED FOR: William Jasper, a noted sergeant in the Revolutionary War POPULATION: 33,270 (2018 estimate) COUNTY SEAT: Rensselaer INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 37
joined, supporting the mural projects, helping support the artists and finding business owners willing to turn the outside of their buildings into the artist canvases. “Just look at the murals,” noted Preston. “They are uniting the community, helping give identity, and also springing economic growth.”
For more information about the murals, go to: renartwlk.org jaspernewtonfoundation.org 181properties.com instagram.com/renartwlk
Pizza Party
food
Add pizzazz to pizza night with these non-traditional takes on everyone’s favorite pie
ASIAN PIZZA Prepared pizza dough to make one 12-inch pizza 2 T. Asian stir fry sauce 1 2 1 1 2 1 1
carrot, finely chopped leaves green cabbage, finely chopped leaf red cabbage, finely chopped green onion, chopped T. chopped cilantro t. powdered ginger t. chili oil
Stretch dough into a large circle on a large oiled pizza pan. Let the dough rest for 20 minutes at room temperature. Preheat the oven to 450 F. Spread the stir fry sauce on the dough, leaving ½ inch around the outside. Sprinkle the carrots, cabbage, half of the green onion, half of the cilantro, ginger, and chili oil over the top. Bake for about 15 minutes until crust is golden brown and crispy. Top with remaining cilantro and green onion.
OCTOBER 2021
17
food
FANCY FRUIT PIZZA Crust 1 cup all-purpose flour ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar ½ cup cold butter, cubed Glaze 5 t. cornstarch 1¼ cups unsweetened pineapple juice 1 t. lemon juice Toppings 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese ⅓ cup sugar 1 t. vanilla extract 2 cups halved fresh strawberries 1 cup fresh blueberries 1 (11 oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained
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OCTOBER 2021
Preheat oven to 350 F. In a large bowl, mix flour and confectioners’ sugar; cut in butter until crumbly. Press onto an ungreased 12-inch pizza pan. Bake until very lightly browned, 10-12 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack. In a small saucepan, mix glaze ingredients until smooth; bring to a boil. Cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Cool slightly. In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over crust. Top with berries and mandarin oranges. Drizzle with glaze. Refrigerate until cold. Editor’s note: We made mini versions of the Asian and fruit pizzas for our photo shoot. We were able to make about 3 mini pizzas per each 12-inch pizza recipe.
FO O D P RE PA RE D B Y I NDI A NA CO NNECTI O N S TA FF PHO TO S B Y TAY L O R MA RA NI O N
Get creative on your crust Go beyond pepperoni and marinara NEXT LEVEL PIZZA TOPPINGS Asparagus
Kale
Broccoli florets Brussels sprouts Caramelized onions Cauliflower florets Chopped bratwurst Gorgonzola cheese Green tomato slices Gyro meat
Pulled pork Shiitake mushrooms Shredded rotisserie chicken Shredded steak Shrimp Sliced potatoes Sun-dried tomatoes
INSTEAD OF PIZZA SAUCE TRY … Alfredo sauce Barbecue sauce Garlic and oil Hoisin sauce Hummus
Pesto Salsa Tapenade Thai Chili sauce
OCTOBER 2021
19
Indiana eats
flavor
LOCAL
These pizzerias are ‘all in the family’
Local “mom and pop” pizza places are community treasures: unique to their hometowns and dedicated to sharing lots of love from their pizza ovens.
Burns Family Pizza
Homemade “secret recipe” sauces and crusts, and toppings ranging from traditional to a bit unusual, nourish hungry patrons after football games, on date nights, on too-busy-to-cook weeknights, and whenever “the hungries” hit. Here are a few familyowned pizzerias throughout the state with their own takes on everyone’s favorite comfort food.
BRUNO’S PIZZA 1800 E. Market St. Logansport 574-753-2861
following. Locals rave about the pizza and Italian Beef sandwiches — and, just as importantly, the friendly service. Owners Teddy and Selena Burns offer a discount for those who pay in cash.
www.brunoscarryoutpizza.com This fifth-generation, family-owned business — currently run by Gina Dingo Curl — opened in 1960. The recipe for these hand-tossed pizzas hasn’t changed in 50 years. The cheese is ground by hand, the sauce is handmade from a secret family recipe and the dough is hand-rolled every night.
BURNS FAMILY PIZZA 806 15th St. SE Demotte 219-987-4992 Just a year-and-a-half after opening (during a pandemic to boot!), Burns Family Pizza has already gained a loyal
20
DUNELAND PIZZA 520 Broadway Chesterton 219-926-1163 www.dunelandpizza.com
CAFÉ PIZZARIA 405 E. Kirkwood Ave. Bloomington 812-332-2111 www.cafepizzaria.com Back in 1953, when it was simply called The Pizzaria, this landmark restaurant introduced “pizza pies” to Bloomington and to current co-owner Larry Webb. Webb was immediately hooked. Thirty years later, he bought the restaurant that he now runs with wife Sharon, son David, and grandson Crosby. Café Pizzaria was voted one of the top 100 pizza restaurants in the country by Popular Plates magazine.
Voted “Best Pizza in Porter County” in the area’s pizza wars in 2015, Duneland Pizza offers more than 25 toppings and five types of crust. Open since 1972, Chesterton’s oldest familyowned and family-operated pizzeria is run by Craig Berg with help from his daughter and grandson. Duneland Pizza is open Fridays through Sundays.
FAYTASTIC PIZZA 220 Main St. Shoals 812-247-2115 Fay Jackson started serving “Faytastic Pizza” in 1994. The restaurant’s
Duneland Pizza OCTOBER 2021
eclectic menu includes pizza in six sizes in either thin crust, deep dish or stuffed crust. There are also nine versions of bread sticks with six choices of dipping sauces. Plus, in an unusual spin for a pizza place, Faytastic Pizza serves Mexican food, too!
JIM’S PIZZA 405 E. Wayne St. Kendallville
PIZZA SUBS & BBQ 519 Washington St. St. Joe 260-337-0222
Papa’s Pizza
PAPA’S PIZZA 824 N. Lake Shore Drive Culver
260-347-1453
574-842-3331
Original owner Jim Wiggington opened Jim’s Pizza in 1962. Now owned by Mark and Wendy Grubb, Kendallville’s first pizzeria still uses Wiggington’s crust and sauce recipes. Jim’s is open for dinner Thursdays through Sundays for take-out only (no dine in or delivery). Frozen pizzas are available so you can have hot-from-the-oven pizza at home.
www.indianasbestpizza.com
MAZERELLA’S UPPER CRUST PIZZA AND PASTA 949 S. Indiana Ave. Sellersburg 812-248-7000 www.mazpizza.com Craig Padgett has owned and operated Mazerrella’s Pizza for over 20 years. The restaurant’s 15 topping pizza, the Big Z, is guaranteed to satisfy the biggest appetites. Pizza is available on Mazerella’s Specialtez menu as well as on the lunch buffet. Build your own pizza by choosing from over 20 toppings and seven sauces.
Mazerrella’s Pizza Lunch Buffet
Papa’s truly is a family affair. Started by Jim McCormack in 1976, it is now operated by his son, Brian; Brian’s wife, Carla; Carla’s sons, Jason Newman and Matt Newman; and Matt’s wife, Catie. The menu goes far beyond pizza so there’s something for everyone. Papa’s take-and-bake pizzas allow you to enjoy fresh-from-the-oven Italian pies at home.
PERILLO’S PIZZERIA 5 S. Broadway St. North Salem 765-676-4171 Visit tiny North Salem in Hendricks County for New York or Sicilian-style pizza made by Damiano Perillo, who came from Sicily to Indiana in the late 1990s. Owned by Perillo and wife Meredith since 2011, this pizzeria is housed in a former doctor’s office built in the 1890s. Pizza is available as 18inch pies or in large slices. The buttery garlic rolls are not to be missed.
St. Joe is the home of the annual Pickle Festival. So, if you’d like to try a Pickle Town Pizza, Pizza Subs & BBQ is THE place to go! Owners Steve and Christine Weirauch opened their pizza shop in 2013 and say their number one goal is having their customers leave the restaurant with smiles on their faces.
TOMATO PIE PIZZA JOINT 100 W. Union St. Paragon 765-537-9000 Owner Kim Raia ages her pizza dough 48 hours for maximum flavor. The pizza is baked in a deck oven and is served by the pie or by the slice. The hand twisted breadsticks get rave reviews.
ZWANZIGZ PIZZA 1038 Lafayette Ave. Columbus 812-376-0200
ZwanzigZ Pizza’s Half Lasagna Pizza / Half Veggies Deluxe Pizza
www.zwanzigz.com ZwanzigZ Pizza started as a oneroom pizza shop in Columbus, Indiana, back in 2002. Owned by Kurt and Lisa Zwanzig, it is now a 6,000 square foot pizzeria and brewery with over 10 specialty pizzas including the 14-topping Ultimate Pizza (the 18-inch version can weigh more than five pounds) and the unique Lasagna Pizza topped with ricotta, mozzarella, provolone and white cheddar cheeses.
OCTOBER 2021
21
Patty Hawley welcomes “inmates” to the Old Jail Inn. The red glove on the door of Cell 1, no doubt left by the “Woman in Red,” is a sure indication this is the “John Dillinger Cell.”
OUT BOX INNS BY RICHARD G. BIEVER
O LD JAI L I NN PHO TO S BY RI CHARD G . BI EVER
-OF-THE-
From a calaboose to a caboose, Indiana offers unique places to stay S P E N D I N G A N I G H T or weekend in jail probably isn’t high on most people’s bucket lists … unless the stay’s at the Old Jail Inn in Rockville. The inn is literally the old Parke County pokey … hoosegow … the slammer … the calaboose … or “the Rock,” as TV’s Deputy Barney Fife might have called it. But from Girl Scouts to motorcycle mamas, newlyweds to grandparents (with the grandkids in tow), folks have found the jail’s accommodations a fun and unique place to stay ever
22
OCTOBER 2021
since the jail building was converted to an inn some 12 years ago. “People come here for the unique experience … to have fun doing something you just can't do every day,” said Patty Hawley, who bought the inn from its original owner and developer earlier this year. “How many jails can you spend the night in — and not because you did something wrong?” she asked. The Old Jail Inn offers five cell-block rooms in the building that housed
the Parke County Sheriff’s office and jail from 1879 to 1998. Choose from the John Dillinger, Al Capone, Thelma & Louise, Elvis Jailhouse Rock, and Jesse James cells. If a jail cell isn’t your thing, try one of the inn’s four suites with more privacy and comforts of home that still have the barred doors of former holding cells.
After Parke County moved its jail to a new facility in 1998, the old office and jail on the eastside of the courthouse square sat empty for about 10 years. Then, when Parke County resident Debra Olson
The inn was voted among the Top 10 Best Unique Sleeps in Indiana last year by readers of the VisitIndiana.com website. (The list is featured on page 25.) The cozy rooms, each done in a different outlaw theme, are the actual cells of the old county jail.
went to purchase just an old iron barred door and window, the county offered her the deed to the whole works. Turning lemons to lemonade, she cleverly and creatively converted it into the kitschy fun place to stay. She ran the inn for about a dozen years until selling it to Hawley and Hawley's significant other, Troy Riggs, early this year. Hawley, 67, a retiree from the U.S. Postal Service, and Riggs, 61, who owned a nostalgia/antique store, moved from their homes in Reno, Nevada, to Rockville. “My boyfriend and I wanted to get out to the Midwest in a small town like this and just try something different,” Hawley said. “We feel a little safer here: smaller town, nicer people, not so crazy.” The inn keeps her busy she said, but she’s loving her first months as innkeeper, er, jailer, and Riggs was able to continue selling his nostalgic signboards and memorabilia down the street. Hawley said she doesn’t plan any changes for the inn, and the inn continues hosting the “Drunk Tank Winery” — a quaint wine tasting venue in the basement. Trina Poynter continues offering samplings of various wines from around the world with her entertaining humor and wit. Hawley noted that although the inn doesn’t produce its own wine, Huber Winery from Southern Indiana produces a medium-bodied Concord-
Merlot blend exclusively for the Old Jail Inn. Visitors to the inn will find its white painted walls serve as the guestbook and are encouraged to leave their own versions of “Kilroy was here.” The walls are covered in graffiti, doodles, poems and notes about the guests' stays in "the slammer." Though none of the graffiti remains from the building’s original guests (real inmates), a cross, said to be carved into the floor of the cell block by an inmate who found Christ while incarcerated and wanted to share his newfound faith, is still visible. Some of the messages left by guests are sweet short notes; some are like diaries of what brought the person to the inn; some are about hearing the ghostly plodding of the night watchman’s boots on the cellblock floor and other unaccountable sounds in the night. Some of the graffiti touches on politics, which of course, brings a response from others. And Hawley admits not all the graffiti may be suitable for a general audience. “Most people put great things because people come here, and they just really have fun. Some people get a little political. I tell people before they come that guests sign the walls, and some of it's not kosher. They know that when they come.” In just the short time she and Riggs have owned
The Old Jail Inn sits on the Parke County Courthouse square in Rockville.
In the cellar below the jail cells, Trina Poynter serves up samplings of wine and bottles of humor in the Drunk Tank Winery.
the inn, she said folks have come from Missouri, Michigan, … all parts of the U.S. One Girl Scout troop came from the Iowa/Illinois border for a weekend. She said that was a mystery trip for the girls who didn’t know they’d be spending the night in a jail. The girls had a blast, she said. They really enjoyed trying on the traditional black-and-white horizontal striped jailbird tops and orange prison garb hanging alongside Parke County Sheriff's Deputy shirts on a rack on the cellblock and getting photos. Hawley said guests checking in sometimes joke about visiting the Drunk Tank in the basement and then being able to stumble
upstairs to their cell. They all refer to this as “pulling an ‘Otis Campbell,’” a reference to the town drunk on the old Andy Griffith Show who let himself in and out of jail at will. And while the Old Jail Inn is a fun and friendly place like Mayberry, returning guests, or “repeat offenders,” as they are called, need to check back in first. And, sorry, Otis, during Parke County’s Covered Bridge Festival each October, reservations are a must. Old Jail Inn 127 S. Jefferson St. Rockville, IN 47872 765-592-6737 or 217-808-1309 OldJailInn.com OCTOBER 2021
23
TIPIS
SILO ROOMS
Patoka Lake Winery
PATO K A L A K E WI N E RY is now offering overnight accommodations attached to its tasting room, gift shop and wine production facility. Unique to the winery are two beautifully decorated two-story suites converted from round silos. Three other suites are also available. Lodging guests enjoy a complimentary tasting and souvenir wine glasses in addition to amenities such as a fireplace, jacuzzi tub, and kitchenette in each of the five suites. Meanwhile, the winery offers over 20 wines to choose from and has two event spaces. The Silo Suites have an open upstairs bedroom, a fireplace with comfortable seating, a furnished kitchenette and more. Patoka Lake Winery, 2900 N. Dillard Road, Birdseye, IN 47513, 812-685-2203, patokalakewinery.com
FO R A N U N FO R G E T TA B L E rustic camping experience, Tipis at Sleeping Bear Retreat won’t disappoint. Each Tipi has four cots with access to picnic tables, a shelter house, a charcoal grill, and firewood. Its location among 50 beautifully wooded acres in French Lick makes Sleeping Bear Retreat the perfect weekend getaway. Campers should be prepared for the weather and bring sleeping bags appropriate for weather conditions since the tipis are not heated or air conditioned, bug spray with high DEET if you plan to go into the woods, food and drink in a cooler (ice is available in the gift shop), fire starting apparatus, fire starting supplies, and basically anything that makes you comfortable. (“Camping is supposed to be a happy time.”) Sleeping Bear Retreat, 2773 S. County Road 1000 W., French Lick, IN 47432, 812-865-6898, SleepingBearRetreat.com
MEDIEVEL CASTLE E S C A PE TH E C H AO S and stress of the modern world at Clayshire Castle, a medieval-style bed and breakfast in the tranquil countryside of western central Indiana where guests are treated like royalty. Many activities are available on the 120-acre property: Stroll through the gardens, wander the hedge maze, hike the hills, soak in the aromatic cedar hot tub, or get immersed in a good book in the library. Visitors can even try on a medieval costume to get into the spirit! Clayshire Castle, 8780 E. County Road 75 N., Bowling Green, IN 47833, 317-797-3822, ClayshireCastle.com
24
OCTOBER 2021
Clayshire Castle
UNIQUE SLEEPS The Indiana Destination Development Corporation’s VisitIndiana website conducted a “Best of Indiana” campaign in 2020. Readers to the site were asked to vote on several categories; one was the Best Unique Sleep in Indiana. From historic hotels to jail cells and from B&Bs to tipis, the top 10 list included an array of incredible experiences across the Hoosier State. Four of the top 10, featured on pages 22-26, were the Old Jail Inn, Sleeping Bear Inn Tipis, Patoka Lake Winery’s Silo Suites and Union Station’s Crowne Plaza railcars. The other six were:
Joseph Decuis Farmstead Inn
HISTORIC HOMES OV E R N I G HT ACCOM O DATI O N S are available at two Inns: The Inn at Joseph Decuis is a meticulously restored 1910 home located in Roanoke within walking distance to the Joseph Decuis restaurant. It offers four rooms, appointed with period furniture and decor. The Joseph Decuis Farmstead Inn is located six miles from the restaurant on the Joseph Decuis Wagyu Farm. The Farmstead Inn includes a restored 1884 farmhouse, carriage house, and barn. It features six bedrooms, each with a private bath, a loft for meetings and receptions, and private dining.
F RENCH L ICK RE S OR T 8538 W. Baden Ave., West Baden, IN 47469 812-936-9300, FrenchLick.com CH A RL E Y CREEK INN 111 W. Market St., Wabash, IN 46992 260-563-0111, CharleyCreekInn.com F L OAT ING C A BINS AT PAT OK A L A K E 2991 N. Dillard Road, Birdseye, IN 47513 812-685-2203, PatokaLakeMarina.com S T ORY INN 6404 IN-135, Nashville, IN 47448 812-988-2273, StoryInn.com HERI TAGE FA RM 4175 N. 1200 W, Flora, IN 46929 765-860-1220, HeritageFarms.com GR A N T S T REE T INN 310 N. Grant St., Bloomington, IN 47408 812-334-2353, GrantStInn.com For more information, go to visitindiana.com/ best-of-indiana/winners/63-unique-sleep.
Guests earn their keep by helping with optional farm chores before bedding down in restored historic digs that date back to 1884. The Joseph Decuis restaurant serves up one of the best farm-to-table meals in the entire state. Inn at Joseph Decuis, 492 N. Main St., Roanoke, IN 46783 | Joseph Decuis Farmstead Inn, 6756 E. 900 S., Columbia City, IN 46725, 260-672-1715, info@josephdecuis.com
Story 25 Inn
OCTOBER 2021
RAILROAD-THEMED
Crowne Plaza
26
OCTOBER 2021
C R OWN E P L A Z A in downtown Indianapolis was originally America’s first Union Station, built in 1888. Each space in the hotel has been converted into upscale accommodations and the station’s Grand Hall now serves as a ballroom with 60-foot ceilings and 3,200 square feet of original stained glass. Thirteen 1920s Pullman train cars have been converted into guest rooms named after influential people of the past. The train cars hold two rooms each and provide one of the most unique lodging experiences possible. Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station, 123 W. Louisiana St., Indianapolis, IN 46225 CrownePlazaIndyDowntown.com
R I L E Y ' S R A I LH O U S E is housed in a New York Central Freight Station that was built in 1914. The Railhouse has since been restored and offers five different rooms for guests. Among these is a New York central boxcar rerepurposed into two separate rooms. The Queen Ann Caboose, a luxury caboose with Victorian styling, is a favorite stay for rail fans. The building has been restored and updated with modern amenities while carefully preserving the integrity of the original architecture. The Railhouse is three miles from the Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes State Park. Riley's Railhouse, 123 N. Fourth St., Chesterton, IN 46304, 219-395-9999, rileysrailhouse.com
Riley's Railhouse
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calendar
OCT. NOV.
Due to the ever-changing coronavirus situation, please note that the events below may not occur at their originally scheduled times. Be sure to reach out to the event contacts below to ensure that the programs you are interested in are still taking place.
NORTHEAST
NORTHWEST
16 30
HOPE COMMUNITY CHURCH OF LOWELL CRAFT FAIR, Lowell (Lake), Hope Community Church. Free food, free Bibles, hourly door prizes, handmade items from local vendors and a kids’ lemonade stand. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. 219-690-8889, office@hopechurchlowell.com, hopechurchlowell.com HALLOWEEN TRAIN, North Judson (Starke), Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum. Twilight train excursion. Passengers disembark to enjoy a “Not-So-Scary, Scary-Animal Show” before continuing to English Lake. Excursion lasts approximately 2¾ hours. Dress in costume or come as you are. 4 p.m. (Central Time). Cost: $9 and up. 574-896-3950, marketing@hoosiervalley.org, hoosiervalley.org
16
Nov.
13
CENTRAL
30
MISCHIEF ON MERIDIAN, Lebanon (Boone), Downtown. Enjoy entertainment and trunk or treating. 5-8 p.m. info@heartoflebanon.org, facebook.com/mischiefonmeridian/
Nov.
DELTA THETA TAU GIFT & HOBBY SHOW, Shelbyville (Shelby), Shelbyville Middle School. Handcrafted toys, jewelry, florals, confections, apparel, and more. Refreshments available. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Santa Claus will be present 11 a.m-1 p.m. Free. 317-401-5078, giftandhobbyshow.com
6
6
Through
Nov.
16
CHILI COOK OFF, Tell City (Perry), City Hall Park. Businesses, groups, organizations and individuals will cook their best pot of chili and serve the public. Music in the City Hall Gazebo. 2-5 p.m. Free. 812-547-7933, cvbbetty@ psci.net, facebook.com/perrycounty THE ART OF CHARACTER: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE GLENN CLOSE COSTUME COLLECTION, Bloomington (Monroe), Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art. Exhibition includes clothing and accessories that actress Glenn Close began collecting at the beginning of her career. Advance reservations strongly suggested. Walk-in availability may be limited. museumhelp@iu.edu., events.iu.edu/artmuseum/all/search/ reservations
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.
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OCTOBER 2021
DELTS’ HOLIDAY CRAFTS & GIFTS SHOW, Portland (Jay), Jay County High School. Over 150 booths. Food available all day. Admission charge. 260-7266729, dttcraftshow@yahoo.com., visitjaycounty.com
SOUTHEAST
1617
SOUTHWEST Nov.
AUTUMN HARVEST FESTIVAL, Columbia City (Whitley), Whitley County Fairgrounds. Craft and food vendors, kids’ games, car show, and farm toy show. Demolition derby begins late afternoon. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. 260-244-7615, whitleycounty4h.com
1617
FORT VALLONIA DAYS, Vallonia (Jackson), various locations. Food, craft and flea market vendors. Parade Saturday at 1 p.m. Live entertainment, 5k run/walk, baby contest, and Muzzleloader shoot. Tomahawk, horseshoe and knife throws. Free. 812-498-2925, facebook.com/ fortvallonia AUTUMN ON THE RIVER, Bethlehem (Clark), School House ground. Daily music, food, shops and museum. Saturday auction, veterans’ tribute, parade, Sunday car show. Free. 317-491-4148, autumnontheriver. wordpress.com
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.
safety
ELECTRICAL OVERLOADS UNLOADING THE CIRCUIT
W
hen Ralphie Parker’s “old man” attempts to plug his “major award” — the infamous plastic leg lamp — into an overloaded wall outlet in the classic movie “A Christmas Story,” there first came a “snap of a few sparks” and the “whiff of ozone” before the lamp blazed forth in the living room front window.
your home doesn’t have enough outlets. Instead of grabbing an extension cord or multiple-outlet plugs that turn your outlets into octopuses, call a qualified electrician who can install more outlets and update circuits and wiring.
While that’s a funny movie scene, those at Indiana Electric Cooperatives remind you overloaded circuits and sparks are never funny. Local fire departments respond to an average of more than 35,000 home fires involving electrical distribution and lighting equipment each year, causing 490 deaths and 1,200 injuries nationwide.
• Never plug more than two appliances into an outlet at any one time; don’t “piggyback” extra appliances on extension cords or wall outlets. Use only outlets designed to handle multiple plugs.
“It’s easy to plug in too many devices onto the same circuit,” said John Gasstrom, CEO at Indiana Electric Cooperatives. “Everyone has a role in keeping homes safe — whether it’s the cooperative keeping consumers informed or homeowners doing their research.” The electrical systems of many older homes, especially, are not properly equipped to respond to today’s increased power demands and may lack the needed number of conveniently placed outlets. Relying too heavily on extension cords and multi-plug power strips may mean
TO PREVENT PROBLEMS, HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO UNLOAD THOSE OUTLETS:
• Know the amount of power you’re placing on an outlet or circuit. Some recommend each outlet or circuit should not exceed 1,500 watts. • Major appliances (refrigerators, dryers, washers, stoves, air conditioners, etc.) should be plugged directly into their own wall outlets since they are heavy power users. If you find you are overloading an outlet or circuit in your home, you may need to contact a professional to help
resolve the problem. An electrician can add outlets and inspect your home’s wiring system.
MAPPING YOUR HOME’S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Whether you draw up an intricate floor plan of your home or just make a simple list, it’s a good idea to map out your home’s electrical system. Getting to know your home can help you or an electrician if there is an overload. Go to the breaker box — usually found in a basement or garage — and turn off one of the breakers stamped with a “15” or “20” at the end of the switch. Be sure to note where circuits lie on the panel.
1
Walk through the house and try all of the lights, ceiling fans and plug-in appliances. Your electrician should have labeled all of the circuit areas, but there could be outliers they may have missed — like the outlet that powers your blender on the garage lighting circuit.
2
Write down everything that doesn’t have power and note which room you’re in. If you want to get really specific, plug a light into each outlet and record all the ones that don’t work.
3
Turn the breaker back on and continue down the electrical panel — yes, it’s that simple!
4
OCTOBER 2021
29
They may even be problems that other co-ops regularly encounter. Sometimes additional training and knowledge are needed to learn about emerging challenges. WVPA is often a conduit to help member co-ops obtain training, reimbursing co-ops for Tipmont REMC Energy Advisor Kevin Carpenter talks with Jeremy Montgomery, energy advisor at Parke County REMC, during a building performance training session sponsored by Wabash Valley Power Alliance.
expenses or hosting experts to train co-op staff members. Those training sessions help many co-op energy advisers obtain the knowledge and gear (such as
PUTTING THE ‘CO-OP’ IN ‘COOPERATION’
infrared cameras, blower doors and energy monitors) to help families and businesses in their community. WVPA even has sponsored commercial business training to show co-op staff members analytics and skills that
Electric co-ops partner to problem-solve and support the families and businesses on their lines
are helpful to meet the unique needs of businesses in their communities. By leveraging the network of staff members at electric co-ops in the
When your local electric
cooperative that provides
Midwest and beyond, your local
cooperative’s energy advisor
electricity for 23 distribution
cooperative is equipped to be able
is stumped by a perplexing
co-ops in Indiana, Illinois and
to power your day – every day, all
power problem, the solution
Missouri. And WVPA cooperates
year long.
may come from a fellow energy
with those co-ops to ensure they
advisor in another town – or
can meet the energy needs of the
even another state.
families and businesses on their
Local electric cooperatives,
lines.
including your power provider,
Support among electric co-ops
vary in size and the number
doesn’t always come in the form
of homes and businesses they
of power plants, poles and wires.
serve. Yet they are part of a much
Excessive energy use – and waste
larger international group of
– can be a problem bewildering
not-for-profit electric distribution
anyone from small households to
cooperatives that are guided by
massive factories. Getting to the
the Cooperative Principles, which
root of those energy problems
includes Cooperation Among
isn’t always an easy solution.
Cooperatives! Your co-op’s power
Our member co-ops are quick to
supplier, Wabash Valley Power
ask staff at other co-ops for their
Alliance (WVPA), is an electric
insights to solve those problems.
generation and transmission
30
OCTOBER 2021
Nick Dombrosky, energy advisor at Hendricks Power Cooperative, tests a heat pump during a building performance training session sponsored by Wabash Valley Power Alliance. WVPA hosts events and training throughout the year to inform energy advisors on new technology and developments that can help them serve their electric co-ops’ members.
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backyard
Ask Rosie
Tipmont REMC consumer B. Rosie Lerner is a longtime Indiana Connection contributer who recently retired as Purdue Extension’s consumer horticulturist. 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.
Spotlight on herbaceous perennials
CREEPING CHARLIE (also known as ground ivy)
CONTROLLING CREEPING CHARLIE
Q:
How can I safely
plants would be most susceptible to
control/stop Creeping
damage.
Charlie in the garden?
Some have found some success
Don Kochert,
with very careful spot application of
Floyds Knobs, Indiana
broad-leaved herbicide in the fall,
A:
when desirable plants are a little
Creeping Charlie (also known as ground ivy) is an
herbaceous perennial that spreads by seed as well as horizontal, above-ground stems called stolons or runners. These runners are easy to hand pull, especially after rain or irrigation but the plant will produce new runners. You have to keep pulling throughout the season. Digging up the mother plants is more effective, but tedious. It’s especially important to prevent seed formation by keeping them pulled when flowering. A layer of mulch 2-3 inches deep will help discourage the plants, but likely won’t be completely effective. Any herbicide that would effectively control Creeping Charlie would be risky to use around your garden plants. This weed is most vulnerable to herbicide in springtime during active growth but this is also when your desirable
32
OCTOBER 2021
less susceptible and the Creeping Charlie is still actively growing. Using a wick application method can help keep the herbicide from reaching desirable plants but is
REVIVING CORAL BELLS
Q:
I have several coral bells plants that I’ve had for about
three years. This winter has been
tedious in a garden setting. Be sure
hard on them and some of the leaves
the herbicide product is labeled
look brown and burned. Should I just
for controlling Creeping Charlie
cut the bad ones off or severely trim
(ground ivy) because not all broad-
the plant down?
leaved weed killers are effective on this species. Read and follow all label directions. Any spray that contacts your desirable plants could damage or kill them. So, I’ll repeat,
Phyllis Tucker, Corydon, Indiana
A:
Since coral bells plants are considered herbaceous
perennials, it is normal for their stems
using herbicide around your garden
and leaves to die back to the ground
plants can be risky and is not the
each year. In milder winters, it is
best approach for most gardeners.
common for this particular species
More information including photos to help identify this pesky weed at www.purduelandscapereport.org/ article/spotlight-on-weeds-groundivy-creeping-charlie-glechomahederacea.
to retain some foliage overwinter, behaving as evergreen, but can look pretty ragged by spring. You can just remove the badly damaged foliage or trim off all the foliage, either approach is fine. New foliage will emerge from the crown of the plant.
energy travel
“From the great Atlantic Ocean to the wide Miss’ippi shore, it’s the biggest chili cook off with scores of pots to explore. It’s visited by thousands and loved by one and all. It’s a food and fundraising combination called the ‘Wabash Cannonball.’”
chili! (WITH APOLOGIES TO A.P. CARTER)
ALL ABOARD FOR …
COOK OFF SCHEDULE DATE: Oct. 16
WABASH CANNONBALL COOK OFF BUILDS STEAM FOR CHARITIES
BEGINS: Noon (EDT) COST: $5
If sampling a wide variety of
Cannonball Chili Cook Off
chili from cooks all around
committee member. Weaver
the Midwest stokes a fire in
has been a part of the event
your belly, then you’ll want
from the beginning as also
to hop aboard the Wabash
the owner and an on-air
Cannonball Chili for Charity
personality of Wabash radio
351 E. Market St. Wabash, Indiana
Cook Off, Oct. 16.
station 105.9.
FOR MORE DETAILS:
Billed as “the largest annual
“Everybody’s got their own
ChiliForCharity.com
chili cook off east of the
idea of what chili is,” Weaver
Mississippi,” the event has
said. “Some people make the
attracted as many as 80 to
chicken chili. Some people
100 cooks in the past.
make chili with macaroni in it
The fundraiser is a day of food and fun. Visitors wander from booth to booth tasting
— which I don’t think is chili. I’ve never tasted two made the same way.”
LOCATION: Paradise
Spring Historic Park ADDRESS:
One high-voltage chili for
for the past decade. “It’s
visitors to try is the “Electric
about our commitment to
Chili” of Heartland REMC.
our community. The event
The co-op, which electrically
brings the whole community
serves Wabash County, is
together to support our local
a founding participant in the
non-profits.”
chili and voting for their
The main thing, though, he
cook off. Its chili slogan is
favorites. Some cooks do
noted, is for all to have fun.
“shockingly good taste.”
Admission to the event is $5
While the Heartland team
pots empty quickly once the
— and that’s for all the chili
has never won the cook
crowd gathers steam and
one can eat. Some 4,000
off, it did place third in the
the shoveling of the coal-hot
to 7,000 chili lovers have
Judge’s Choice category
chili begins — so don’t miss
packed the cook off in past
one year. “For us, it’s not
the train. “Make sure you get
years. All the money raised
about winning,” said Rachel
there around noon,” Weaver
supports charities within
Olsen, who handles the
emphasized. “It’s usually
Wabash County. A total of
REMC’s marketing and
gone within two and a half
“It’s definitely worth the
$615,000 has been raised
communication and has
hours.” — by Richard G.
trip,” said Wade Weaver, a
from previous years.
been its chief chili chef
Biever, senior editor
straight chili preparation, while others create a theme to go with their chili. Props and costumes add to the fun. This is the 18th event since it began in 2003; last year’s was canceled because of COVID.
Despite the vast array of chili combinations to sample, the
OCTOBER 2021
33
cooperative career Professional progression:
FROM BOTH SIDES NOW Diana Martinez used to be a “face” of Carroll White REMC as the member services representative working closely with consumers who had billing issues and questions. Now, she’s made a 180-degree shift. As operations coordinator, she literally and figuratively has gone from front to back: from the front offices to the back operations; from helping individual consumers on their side of the meter to helping bring that electricity to all the meters. In the operations position she’s finding more responsibility working closely with the line superintendent, dispatching a service crew or crews when there are outages, processing work orders, working with mapping and staking engineers. She still gets to talk to consumers, she noted, mostly by phone. “There are a lot more calls to answer — especially after a storm. But the job duties definitely changed.” When the previous operations coordinator announced her retirement
34
in 2018, Diana applied. “I wanted to learn more about the other side of the REMC. Being a member services representative in the front, I helped members. But I wanted to see what happens out in the field with a line crew and get that background as well.” She quickly familiarized herself with the technical ins and outs of electric operations. “There are a lot of things that now make sense when I answer the calls about blinking lights or why this or that happened. When someone calls in about a line down, now I know not just what to ask but why I’m asking it. Before, I didn’t really have a whole lot of knowledge with that. But you could ask me anything about payments, and I could tell you,” she noted with a wink at the defensiveness. “I definitely do like knowing both sides now.”
Diana Martinez Operations Coordinator Carroll White REMC
Diana said one of the great things about working at her hometown REMC is the opportunity to find new professional challenges without leaving town or even changing employers. “There’s always room for growth. You can reach other goals you would like to achieve,” she said. “I absolutely love that because then you already have a relationship with all the employees, you know the different departments and what they do and how they all interact with each other. REMCs are great places to work, very family oriented, and there are always opportunities to grow.”
INTERESTED IN AN ELECTRIC CO-OP CAREER? Visit WePowerIndiana.org to learn about available careers or tell us about yourself.
2011 hired
2018 JOB CHANGE
Member Services Representative
Operations Coordinator
OCTOBER 2021