Orange County REMC’s
AUGUST 2026
Celebrating the Best of Indiana THE TOP PICKS FROM READERS’ FAVORITE SPOTS ACROSS THE HOOSIER STATE
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL ELECTRIC UTILITY ABOUT INCENTIVES
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FROM THE EDITOR
INDIANA CONNECTION
VOLUME 76 | NUMBER 2 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 300,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership. The average printed and mailed cost per issue is 54 cents.
CONTACT US 11805 Pennsylvania St., Carmel, IN 46032 317-487-2220 | info@indianaconnection.org IndianaConnection.org
INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS Dr. Richard Leeper President Jamey Marcum Vice President Melissa Menchhofer Secretary/Treasurer John Cassady CEO
EDITORIAL STAFF Britt Davis Editor Mandy Barth Vice President of Communication and Member Engagement Lauren Carman Director of Events, Engagement, and Communication Ashley Curry Production and Design Coordinator Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist Amber Knight Creative Manager Kiley Lipps Graphic Designer
UNSOLICITED MATERIAL Indiana Connection does not use unsolicited freelance manuscripts or photographs and assumes no responsibility for the safekeeping or return of unsolicited material.
SUBSCRIPTIONS $12 a year for individuals not subscribing through participating REMCs/RECs.
The kids are alright O
ur June cover feature
would look like. It was hard to
highlighted the STARTedUp
believe they were teenagers. Ideas
Foundation and its high school
ranged from skin cancer screening
pitch competition. That same
on your phone to a system that
month, STARTedUp held its State
turns plastics into fuel sources.
Finals and invited me to attend. I was curious to see the “Shark Tank-style” competition and what the students were presenting, so I made my way to Butler University’s Clowes Memorial Hall to watch.
My favorite project also won first place in the competition. If you’ve ever been in the hospital, you know that an IV system will set off an alarm whenever you put your arm in the wrong position.
Ten finalists presented their pitches
OccluSense, created by Riya Koya
in 10-minute time slots to the six
and Zaina Khan of Carmel High
judges. Each had six minutes to
School, is a program that analyzes
pitch their idea and four minutes
IV pressure to prevent unnecessary
for questions from the judges. The
alarms. This frees up nursing time
students came from across the state
and reduces alarm fatigue.
and reached the finals either by winning their regional or by being selected as a wild card.
It’s hard not to come away from that competition feeling better about the future. If these students
The students’ impressive
are any indication, the next
presentations blew me away. Not
generation is smart, creative,
only did they have to create an
and ready to take on hard
introduction video, but they also
challenges. As The Who sang,
had to develop detailed financials
“The kids are alright.”
outlining how they would use the $25,000 first-place prize and what their company’s future expansion
BRITT DAVIS | editor bdavis@indianaec.org
CHANGE OF ADDRESS If you receive Indiana Connection through your electric co-op membership, report address changes to your local co-op.
POSTAGE Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, Indiana, and at additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER Send change of address to: Indiana Connection 11805 Pennsylvania St., Carmel, IN 46032 Include key number. No portion of Indiana Connection may be reproduced without permission of the editor.
We want to hear from you EMAIL: info@indianaconnection.org WEB: indianaconnection.org (fill out forms) MAIL: 11805 Pennsylvania St., Carmel, IN 46032 ON THE MENU: Submit your favorite soup recipes, deadline Sept. 1.
If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card. GIVEAWAY: Enter to win a gift certificate to The Children’s Museum of
Indianapolis. Visit indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests or send your contact information to our office address. The deadline to enter is Aug. 31.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA AUGUST 2026 3
INDIANA CONNECTION CONTENTS
INDIANA CONNECTION CONTENT
AUGUST
10 FOOD
12 ENERGY 03 FROM THE EDITOR 05 CO-OP NEWS
15 FEATURE STORY 13 COUNTY
22 TRAVEL
Switzerland County
Experience the American prairie at
Energy news and information
15 FEATURE STORY
from your electric cooperative
Celebrating the best of Indiana
09 SAFETY
20 INDIANA EATS
Consider utility safety before
The Oyster Bar offers 140 years of
starting outdoor projects
culinary excellence in Fort Wayne
10 FOOD
21 HOOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS
Savor your daily greens with
22 TRAVEL
Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve (Not in all editions)
23 DIY Elevate your walls with texture and color (Not in all editions)
these tasty spinach recipes
12 ENERGY Stay cool and save energy
AUGUST 2026
this summer Celebrating the Best of Indiana THE TOP PICKS FROM READERS’ FAVORITE SPOTS ACROSS THE HOOSIER STATE
4 AUGUST 2026
ON THE COVER: Indiana Connection set out to celebrate the unique and vibrant offerings of our great state by asking our readers to nominate the “Best of Indiana.” The winner of Best Place to Take the Kids, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, is one of the great attractions that the Hoosier State has to offer. (Photo courtesy of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis)
ike it or not, artificial
L
and additional factors to help
intelligence seems inescapable.
predict when electricity use is
Even a quick Google search
likely to increase. Better forecasts
produces an AI-generated
allow us to prepare for higher
smorgasbord of results, rather
demand, manage resources more
than a simple list of links. AI
effectively, and support reliable
OFFICE HOURS
is even shaping conversations
service during peak periods.
7 a.m.–4 p.m., Monday–Friday
about the future of energy.
MAIN OFFICE ADDRESS 7133 N. State Road 337, Orleans, IN 47452
While news headlines often
identify potential problems along
focus on the rapid growth of
the local grid before they lead
OPERATIONS/MATERIALS OFFICE 8390 N. State Road 37, Orleans, IN 47452
AI, electric cooperatives are
to power outages. By analyzing
taking a measured approach to
information from automated
understanding how these tools
meters and other equipment
might help improve service for
across the electric system, AI-
the local communities they serve.
powered tools can detect unusual
CONTACT US 812-865-2229 or 888-337-5900 Bill Payments: 855-938-3393 EMAIL orangecoremc@myremc.coop
MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 208, Orleans, IN 47452 SERVICE INTERRUPTIONS 855-865-2229 (OPTION 1) — 24/7 Have the phone number associated with your account ready when reporting outages. Please limit after-hours calls to emergencies and outage situations. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Daniel Houchin District 1 Randy Roberts District 2 Carl Anderson District 3 Thomas Lamb District 4 Kyle Livingston District 5 Brian Hawkins District 6 George Key District 7 SENIOR STAFF Matthew C. Deaton General Manager/CEO Billy Chastain Operations Manager Hannah Carter HR and Benefits Administrator Braden Mitchell Network Engineering Manager Cade Powers Engineering & Member Services Manager Charlie Rollins Fiber Construction Manager Montana Roberts Marketing & Sales Manager Ashley Terrell Office Manager Misty Tincher Accounting Manager
For Orange County REMC, our goal is not to adopt AI technology simply because it’s new. Instead, any tool or innovation must provide a clear benefit to our members, whether that’s
AI tools are also being used to
patterns or anomalies that might otherwise go unnoticed. These early warnings could help our crews investigate issues sooner, potentially reducing the likelihood or duration of outages.
improving power reliability,
Maintaining power lines is another
increasing operational efficiency,
critical area where AI technology
or helping our team make
may offer benefits. Trees and
better-informed decisions. As we
overgrown vegetation are one
explore AI tools, we are doing so
of the leading causes of power
cautiously, evaluating where they
outages. Many electric utilities,
can add value while maintaining
including co-ops, are exploring
a strong focus on member needs,
image recognition tools to monitor
privacy, and system reliability.
vegetation growth near power
One area where AI shows promise is electricity load forecasting. Electric demand changes throughout the day and fluctuates significantly during periods of extreme weather. Advanced forecasting tools can analyze historical data, weather patterns,
lines more efficiently. Rather than replacing the expertise of our field crews, these tools can help identify parts of the system that need attention, allowing crews to prioritize work areas and make the best use of their time. (continued on page 6)
AUGUST 2026 5
ORANGE COUNTY REMC CO-OP NEWS
myremc.coop myremc.coop/internet
Exploring AI’s potential to improve service and reliability
ORANGE COUNTY REMC CO-OP NEWS
(continued from page 5)
Beyond the electric system itself, AI could also
As AI tools evolve, Orange County REMC
improve day-to-day operations. For example, AI tools
will continue exploring their potential. But
can assist office employees by summarizing lengthy
as with any new technology, adoption will be
reports, organizing member feedback, and analyzing
guided by a simple principle: if an AI tool helps
large amounts of data. These types of tools could help
improve reliability, efficiency, or services for our
our team spend less time on repetitive administrative
members, it’s worth considering. If it doesn’t,
tasks and more time focusing on members and
we will continue exploring solutions that do.
addressing our community’s energy needs. Even with these potential benefits, we recognize that AI is not a cure-all. Human oversight remains essential, and decisions that affect our members
Matt Deaton
General Manager/CEO
will never rely solely on automated systems.
A trip of a lifetime MARISSA BLAIS REPRESENTS ORANGE COUNTY REMC ON 2026 YOUTH TOUR
O
range County REMC sponsored Marissa Blais of Crawford County to attend the 2026 Indiana Youth Tour in June. Youth Tour provides young Hoosiers the opportunity to visit the nation’s capital, learn about government, experience American history, and gain a better understanding about their electric cooperative and government. A delegation of 60 Indiana students representing Indiana electric cooperatives participated in the trip, convening with students from across the country in Washington for the weeklong experience. “Orange County REMC
6 AUGUST 2026
is pleased to provide this opportunity for our local youth,” said Matt Deaton, general manager and CEO. “It’s a great trip and a wonderful chance to see the sites, make new friends and learn how everyone, even young people, can make a difference in the political process.” Delegates on the trip visited the Flight 93 Memorial, Gettysburg Battlefield, Arlington National Cemetery, National Museum of the Marine Corps, and Smithsonian museums. The delegation also toured the National Mall memorials, met friends from across the country, and much more.
Marissa Blais
The Indiana Youth Tour students also participated in a youth rally hosted by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and spent a day on Capitol Hill, where they had an opportunity to meet with Indiana’s congressional delegation to ask questions and share their thoughts on a variety of timely issues.
ORANGE COUNTY REMC CO-OP NEWS
CommandIQ: Your backto-school remote control ack-to-school season means
B
Instead of wondering why the
more than backpacks and
connection slows down or
homework — it also means more
struggling with complicated
devices competing for your home
router settings, CommandIQ
Wi-Fi. From virtual assignments
makes managing your home
and research to streaming lessons
network simple and intuitive.
and working from home, keeping everyone connected can quickly become a challenge. CommandIQ puts you back in control.
As the school year gets underway, CommandIQ helps keep your family's digital life organized so students can stay connected,
Think of it as the remote control
parents can stay productive,
for your entire Wi-Fi network.
and everyone can make the
With one easy-to-use app, you
most of their home Wi-Fi.
can view connected devices, manage guest access, prioritize bandwidth for homework or video calls, and even pause internet
This back-to-school season, let CommandIQ rein in the chaos and put you back in command.
access when it's time to focus.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIP
Running multiple major appliances at the same time — like your dishwasher, laundry machines and oven — can spike energy demand and strain the electric grid, especially during peak hours (typically late afternoon to early evening).
AUGUST 2026 7
ORANGE COUNTY REMC CO-OP NEWS
Rate schedule How to compute your monthly electric bill: Use this information to figure your bill for electric use in August. Rate schedule for standard service
Standard service consumer charge........... $36 Standard service energy charge.......... $0.1124 Wholesale power cost tracker........ $0.0194187 Total bill x Indiana sales tax.......................... 7%
Employee news KESTERSON JOINS TEAM Orange County REMC/
TERRELL CELEBRATES 22 YEARS OF SERVICE
Orange County Fiber welcomes
Orange County REMC/
Kameron Kesterson as a locator.
Orange County Fiber salutes
He started at the cooperative on
Ashley Terrell, office manager,
June 22. Welcome, Kameron!
on 22 years of service to the cooperative. Thank you, Ashley!
Example for 1,200 kWh
Standard service consumer charge ......... $36 1,200 kWh @ $0.1124........................... $134.88 Wholesale power cost tracker 1,200 kWh @ $0.0194187..................... $23.30 Total ............................................................ $194.18 Indiana sales tax ....................................... $13.59 Total bill...................................................... $207.77
Example for 1,200 kWh on time-of-use
300 kWh (on-peak) and 900 kWh (off-peak) Time-of-use consumer charge .......... $40.90 Energy charge on-peak 300 kWh @ $0.1671 ........................... $50.13 Energy charge off-peak 900 kWh @ $0.0691 ......................... $62.19 Wholesale power cost tracker 1,200 kWh @ $0.0194187 ................... $23.30 Total ............................................................ $176.52 Indiana sales tax ....................................... $12.36 Total bill .................................................... $188.88
Rate schedule for security lighting
Security lighting: 100 W HPS ................ $9.82 Security lighting: 40 W LED................... $9.82
Bill payment information and services Visa, MasterCard, and Discover cards accepted. Pay by phone at 855-938-3393. Visit myremc.coop for these services: • Pay online • Pre-pay your bill • Sign up for recurring monthly payment
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Celebrate safe digging on 811 Day
A
ug. 11 is just one day a year,
utilities enough time to mark the
but Orange County REMC
approximate location of their
hopes the 8/11 date will serve as
underground utilities on your
a natural reminder for residents
property (IC 8-1-26). Each utility
to call 811 any day of the year
will be marked in a specific color.
before a digging project.
The marks are valid for 20 days.
Striking a single line can cause
Before you contact Indiana 811,
injury, repair costs, fines, and
you will need to know specific
inconvenient outages. Every
details about where you plan
digging project, no matter how
to dig, including the county,
large or small, warrants a call to
township, street address,
811. Installing a mailbox, building
nearest intersecting street and
a deck, planting a tree, and
location on the property. You
laying a patio are all examples
will also need the name and
facebook.com/ orangecountyremc
of digging projects that need
phone number of the person
a call to 811 before starting.
who will do the digging.
instagram.com/ orangecountyremc
Indiana requires two full
It is also recommended you mark
working days’ advance notice to
the designated area with white
the 811 center or online before
paint or flags, so the utilities
a digging project to give the
know where you plan to excavate.
youtube.com/search for Orange County REMC
8 AUGUST 2026
utdoor projects such as
location of underground lines
overhead power lines or utility
landscaping, fence installation,
using paint or flags.
poles. Trees growing into power
tree planting, and mailbox
replacement can improve your property. They can also create serious safety risks if utility lines are not properly identified first. Before starting any project that involves digging, homeowners should think about utility safety both below and above ground.
Contact Indiana 811 Before starting any digging project, homeowners should contact Indiana 811 online or by dialing 811 to have public underground utility lines marked. Underground utility lines may be closer to the surface than expected, making it important to locate them before digging begins. Striking an underground utility
Indiana 811 marks public utility lines leading to the utility meter. Private utility lines, such as those connected to outdoor lighting, irrigation systems, detached
lines are one of the leading causes of outages during storms and high winds. Branches contacting power lines can interrupt electric service and create dangerous conditions.
garages, or fire pits, may not
When planning landscaping
be marked and could require a
projects, homeowners should also
private locator.
keep pad-mounted transformers
Evaluate the whole area Homeowners should also look above ground before beginning outdoor projects. Ladders, long-handled tools, tree limbs,
and other utility equipment clear and accessible for utility crews. Shrubs, fencing, mulch, and decorative landscaping should not block access to electrical equipment.
and other materials can come
Taking a few extra steps before
dangerously close to overhead
starting a project can help protect
power lines.
your family, property, and
Trees and landscaping should never be planted too close to
electric service. Source: Indiana 811
line can cause injuries, outages, expensive repairs, or service disruptions for your neighborhood. “Submitting a request through Indiana 811 before starting a project is free, easy, and helps protect homeowners and utility infrastructure,” said John Cassady, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives. “Even small outdoor projects can become dangerous if underground utilities are not properly identified first.” Indiana law requires contacting Indiana 811 at least two full working days before excavation begins, excluding weekends and holidays. After a request is submitted, utility operators will mark the approximate AUGUST 2026 9
INDIANA CONNECTION SAFETY
Before starting outdoor projects, consider utility safety O
INDIANA CONNECTION FOOD
Popeye approved SAVOR YOUR DAILY GREENS WITH THESE TASTY SPINACH RECIPES
RECIPES PREPARED AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY INDIANA CONNECTION STAFF.
10 AUGUST 2026
Spinach lasagna roll-ups
ROSIE MCGUIRE, WASHINGTON
YVONNE BERTKE, ST. MEINRAD
1 lb. fresh spinach, broken into small pieces
FOR DRESSING
6 slices of bacon, fried and crumbled 6 green onions, sliced 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs 1 Tbsp butter
1 Tbsp garlic powder
24 oz jar of spaghetti sauce or 3 cups of homemade
or 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/2 cup olive oil
4 oz whipped cream cheese
1 egg
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded, divided
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg
1/4 tsp pepper 5 tsp white vinegar
Sauté the breadcrumbs with the butter. Set aside. Combine dressing ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour over the spinach, bacon, and green onions. Toss with the breadcrumbs.
1 lb. lasagna noodles
1 lb. fresh spinach, cooked, rinsed, chopped, drained, and squeezed dry
1/8 tsp grated nutmeg Fresh chopped basil or parsley for garnish
In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly mix cream cheese, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, and nutmeg. Add salt and pepper to taste and set aside. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse in cold water. Lay noodles flat onto baking sheets, foil, or waxed paper to avoid breakage. Lightly spray with cooking spray to keep noodles from sticking. Set aside. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Coat the bottom of a 9-by-13inch baking dish with 1 cup of spaghetti sauce. Spread about 1/4 cup of cheese mixture evenly on each noodle. Roll up snugly, but not so tight that the filling leaks out. Position the rolls either flat, with the seam side down, or upright on one of the
Tuscan chicken orzo MARK SEIBERT, FLOYDS KNOBS
ruffled edges. Fill the pan until the rolls are slightly touching. Spoon the remaining sauce over the
2 cups orzo, uncooked
1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
3 cups chicken broth
1 tsp garlic powder
remaining mozzarella and
1 cup heavy whipping cream
parmesan cheese. Cover
2 pounds of chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces, cooked
1 jar sun-dried tomatoes with oil, cut into smaller pieces
1 tsp salt
1 bag of fresh spinach
the foil and bake for an
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 cup slivered almonds
additional 10 to 15 minutes,
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
until the cheese is bubbling
Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Combine all the ingredients, then pour into the dish. Bake at 400 F for
rolls and sprinkle with
the pan with foil and bake 30 to 35 minutes. Remove
and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let it set at least 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle
40 minutes. Remove from the oven, stir, then fold in
with chopped parsley or
the Parmesan cheese.
basil leaves and serve. AUGUST 2026 11
INDIANA CONNECTION FOOD
Spinach salad
INDIANA CONNECTION ENERGY
Beat the heat STAY COOL AND SAVE ENERGY THIS SUMMER
K
eeping cool and saving energy can seem like opposing goals
in the summer. But there are ways to do both by combining smart habits, efficient equipment use, and simple home improvements.
Use your thermostat strategically. Raising the thermostat by two or three degrees when you’re at home can make a huge difference, and going even higher when you’re away can help as well. If remembering to adjust the thermostat settings sounds like too much work, consider a programmable or smart thermostat, which can automatically adjust the temperature and help ensure energy isn’t wasted, especially when no one’s home.
Ceiling and portable fans help circulate air, which can make rooms feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. Just remember to turn them off when you leave the room to save energy.
Close blinds, curtains, or shades, especially on windows facing south or west, during the hottest parts of the day. Blocking sunlight can keep indoor temperatures from rising. Blackout curtains or reflective window films are particularly effective at keeping heat out.
Seal leaks with weatherstrips or caulk to keep the cool air in
doors, windows, or ducts. Proper
off unused devices, as they
insulation in walls and attics can
generate heat even when idle.
also go a long way in reducing
Replace or clean air conditioner filters regularly to help with
Try to use major appliances like ovens, dryers, and dishwashers only early in the morning or late in the evening, when it’s cooler,
efficiency. Make sure outdoor
since they generate heat. Also
units are clear of debris and
consider grilling outdoors or
shaded if possible.
using smaller appliances like
your cooling system’s workload.
Upgrade to a newer, more energyefficient air conditioner if you
microwaves, air fryers, or slow cookers rather than the oven.
have an older model. Look for
Many of these options seem
systems with high Seasonal Energy
like small things, but they can all
Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings
add up to a cooler home without
or Energy Star certification.
a high electric bill throughout
Consider switching to LED light bulbs, which produce less heat
the summer.
than incandescent bulbs.
Chelsi Jackson
and warm air out. Cool air can
Minimize the use of electronics
escape through cracks around
when not needed and turn
Project Coordinator Henry County REMC
12 AUGUST 2026
BY NICOLE THOMAS
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SWISS WINE FESTIVAL
Along the Ohio River in
A TOAST TO TRADITION
collection marks his grave.
southeastern Indiana is
In the early 1800s, Swiss
Today, a concrete statue of Fred
Switzerland County, known
winemakers settled in what is
stands on Vevay Hill in his honor.
as the birthplace of Indiana’s
now Vevay, named after their
No one knows who placed the
wine industry and one of the
hometown in Switzerland.
statue there, but it’s still dressed
Midwest’s most distinctly Swiss
The Swiss Wine Festival, which
up for holidays and special
communities. The county is
honors the area’s winemaking
occasions throughout the year.
also home to Patriot, one of the
traditions, has been held each
The Switzerland County Tourism
state’s smallest incorporated
August since 1968. The four-day
Office also sells concrete statues
towns, with a population of
festival runs Thursday through
of Fred, and they are displayed
roughly 200 residents.
Sunday and attracts more than
around the county in tribute.
FROM STORE TO STAGE The Hoosier Theater in Vevay is one of the oldest commercial buildings in Switzerland County.
20,000 people. Visitors can enjoy grape stomps, wine tastings of more than 100 Indiana wines, carnival rides, and live music.
COUNTY FACTS
Built in 1837 along the Ohio River,
KING OF VEVAY HILL
it originally served as a warehouse
Fred was a white billy goat born in
and general store. Over the years,
2000 who became a local legend
the building has housed a saddlery,
in Switzerland County after
post office, tavern, and newspaper
repeatedly escaping his pen at the
offices before being converted into
county’s 4-H fair. He eventually
a movie theater in 1926. After the
made an abandoned house along
POPULATION: 9,737
theater closed in 1955, the building
SR 56 his home, roaming the
was vacant for nearly three decades
nearby woods and helping himself
COUNTY SEAT: Vevay
until residents formed Historic
to food from nearby gardens.
Vevay, Inc. and restored the
Locals often spotted him standing
landmark. Reopened in 1987, the
atop Vevay Hill, which became his
Hoosier Theater now serves as a
favorite place to overlook the town.
community performing arts venue
After his death in 2013, he was
with plays, concerts, and more.
buried along SR 56, where a rock
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HISTORIC HOOSIER THEATER
PHOTO COURTESY OF VEVAY/SWITZERLAND COUNTY TOURISM
FOUNDED: 1814 NAMED FOR: The country of Switzerland
INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 78
AUGUST 2026 13
INDIANA CONNECTION COUNTY
Switzerland County
Best of
BED AND BREAKFAST
Story Inn, Nashville
a n a i Ind Celebrating the Best of Indiana THE TOP PICKS FROM READERS’ FAVORITE SPOTS ACROSS THE HOOSIER STATE
Story is a national historic district that operates as a destination hotel, acclaimed restaurant, award-winning event venue, and dive bar. The old general store is now the bed-and-breakfast, Story Inn, and all the cottages on the
E
property also serve as overnight
together contributions from communities across the state,
at $200. The menu is crafted
arlier this year, Indiana Connection set out to celebrate the unique and vibrant offerings of our great state by asking our
readers to nominate the “Best of Indiana.” This contest brings
accommodations. Inclusive overnight dining packages start
highlighting the places, experiences, and flavors that define Indiana.
from food grown in the hotel’s
From charming bed-and-breakfasts and bustling breweries to
and nature trails are available for
family-friendly attractions and delectable dining options, Best of Indiana showcases the diverse spirit and pride of Indiana residents. As our readers nominated their favorites, they not only reflect their personal preferences but also support local businesses and foster a sense of community. After organizing the nominations, we asked readers to vote for the top three nominees in each category. Read on as we reveal the winners who embody the best of what Indiana has to offer.
gardens. The orchard, vineyard, guests to explore. For reservations, events calendar, and the 1851 Club family and town rentals, visit storyinn.com or call 812-988-2273.
Other finalists Market Street Inn, Jeffersonville The Whittaker Inn, West Lafayette
AUGUST 2026 15
INDIANA CONNECTION FEATURE
Indiana Connection Readers’ Choice Awards
INDIANA CONNECTION FEATURE
TENDERLOIN
BREWERY
Miller’s Tavern, North Vernon
St. Benedict’s Brew Works, Ferdinand
Miller’s Tavern, which opened
St. Benedict’s Brew Works opened
in 1937 in historic downtown
in October 2015 on the grounds
North Vernon, boasts a classic
of the Monastery Immaculate
pub, hometown atmosphere,
Conception in Dubois County.
with new, expanded seating for
St. Benedict’s Brew Works opened
casual comfort and an outdoor
in October 2015 on the grounds
patio. This historic bar offers
of the Monastery Immaculate Conception in Dubois County. The brewery produces a variety of craft beers, including yearround lagers and ales, as well as sought-after seasonal brews. Belgian-style monastic beers are often on tap, including Tripels, Dubels, and Quads.
CAMPGROUND
Patoka Lake Modern Campground, Birdseye Patoka Lake is one of the state’s largest and most popular recreation areas. Covering about
counter seating and a community spot for dining in, along with carry-out. Famous for their large, crispy, breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches, the menu also includes ribeye sandwiches, fish, burgers, and appetizers. For more information, call 812-346-1195 or visit the
Owner Vince Luecke has
8,800 acres of water and bordered
appreciated the community’s
by thousands of acres of forest, the
restaurant’s Facebook page.
support since the brewery opened.
lake attracts visitors for boating,
Brewer Evan Becker describes beer
fishing, swimming, hiking, wildlife
Other finalists
production as both an art and a
viewing, and camping.
science that requires tremendous discipline and creativity to consistently produce high-quality beer. St. Benedict’s Brew Works takes the time to make decisions that prioritize the highest quality in their ingredients, processes, and people.
The modern campground at Patoka Lake offers a comfortable outdoor experience with hundreds of electric campsites designed for both RVs and tents. Most sites include electric hookups, concrete pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Campers also have access to
For more information, visit
modern restrooms, hot showers,
saintbenedictsbrewworks.com, call
drinking water, playgrounds,
812-998-2337, or check out the
and nearby recreational facilities.
brewery’s Facebook page.
The campground is open
Other finalists Patoka Lake Brewing, Birdseye Upland Brewing, Bloomington
year-round and provides easy access to the lake’s beaches, trails, and boating areas. To make a reservation, go to
indianastateparks.com or call 812-338-5589.
Other finalists Brown County State Park, Nashville Spring Mill State Park, Mitchell 16 AUGUST 2026
Greazy Pickle, Portland One Eyed Jack’s, Winamac
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis ignites joy, wonder, and curiosity by creating powerful learning experiences for children and adults. It’s the world’s largest children’s museum, with 485,000 square feet of public space, including five floors of indoor exhibits and 7.5 acres of outdoor space in the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience. Named the best children’s museum in the country by USA Today for three years in a row, The Children’s
COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
Marshall County Blueberry Festival, Plymouth The Marshall County Blueberry
fund scholarships for the festival’s
Festival in Plymouth, is celebrating
pageant winners. The festival also
its 60th year Sept. 4-7. The festival,
features the Blueberry Splash and
named in honor of Marshall
the Blueberry Stomp 5K and 15K
County’s agricultural history,
runs. Look for the festival mascot,
now serves as a family-friendly
Blueberry Hank, at the races and
celebration for the community.
other events.
Every day of the festival offers
Admission is free, with
activities for kids and musical
parking available for $10 and a
entertainment, with over 600
complimentary tram service. The
food, craft, and commercial
festival opens at noon on Friday
booths. Saturday ends with a drone
and at 9 a.m. on the weekend, and
show, and on Sunday, enjoy the
closes at 9 p.m. nightly.
fireworks show.
For more details, visit
Among the shops and sweets, there
blueberryfestival.org or
are plenty of events to enjoy, many
call 888-936-5020.
of which support worthy causes. The Blueberry Splash one-mile open swim funds swim lessons for kids in need, and souvenirs
Museum of Indianapolis is home to 14 permanent exhibits, including Dinosphere, the museum’s most popular exhibit with an immersive collection of real dinosaur fossils and an active working paleontology lab. Founded in 1925, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis celebrated its 100th birthday in 2025. For tickets and other information, visit childrensmuseum.org, call 317-334-4000, or follow @childrensmuseum on social media.
Other finalists Cornucopia Farm, Scottsburg Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari, Santa Claus
Other finalists Harvest Homecoming, New Albany Kendallville Apple Festival, Kendallville
purchased at the Blueberry Store
AUGUST 2026 17
INDIANA CONNECTION FEATURE
PLACE TO TAKE THE KIDS
INDIANA CONNECTION FEATURE
RESTAURANT
Schnitzelbank Restaurant, Jasper Celebrating its 65th year in 2026,
the Schnitzelbank part of their
the Schnitzelbank Restaurant has
own traditions.
become one of Indiana’s most
MUSEUM
iconic dining destinations. What began as a small tavern on Jasper’s
Dubois County Museum, Jasper
south side was transformed in 1961
The Dubois County Museum in
hospitality, tradition, and great
Jasper opened in 1999. In 2024, the museum moved to a former factory building and now has 50,000 square feet of exhibit space. The collections have grown to over 68,000 pieces, with about 14% on display. The museum’s display in Room One is a Germanic history of the area, archeological finds, sports, religious and military items, and other temporary displays. Room Two showcases a collection of antique farm machinery, a Wildlife Room, a complete log home, items from pioneer days, 15 murals of local towns, and model trains. Children have their own room to play in, and a 17-room Main Street depicts life in the early 1900s. Room Three displays the history and products of the local wood factories. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday. To learn more, visit duboiscountymuseum.org or call 812-634-7733.
Other finalists The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis
18 AUGUST 2026
by Larry and Betty Hanselman into a family restaurant built on food. Today, the second generation of the Hanselman family proudly carries on that legacy. Rooted in the rich German heritage of southern Indiana, the Schnitzelbank offers authentic German-inspired specialties alongside American favorites, ensuring there is truly something for everyone. From handcrafted schnitzels and sauerbraten to fried
A recent addition, the beautifully restored Glockenspiel, celebrates Jasper’s German roots and has quickly become a destination in its own right, delighting visitors with its music and animation throughout the day. For 65 years, the Schnitzelbank has remained committed to one simple philosophy: serve great food, welcome guests like family, and create memories that last a lifetime. To learn more, visit
schnitzelbank.com or call 812-482-2640.
chicken and homemade desserts,
Other finalists
generations of families have made
The Chicken House, Sellersburg Red Yeti, Jeffersonville
INDIANA CONNECTION FEATURE
PLACE FOR LIVE THEATER
Lincoln Amphitheatre, Lincoln City The Lincoln Amphitheatre, nestled inside Lincoln State Park, is a majestic 2,200-seat venue conveniently located off I-64. Opened in 1987, it was built just steps from where Abraham
WINERY
Oliver Winery, Bloomington
Lincoln spent his boyhood years.
Oliver Winery traces its origins
White, and Sweet Rose wines.
For decades, the venue was best
to the 1960s, when Indiana
More recently, its Blueberry and
University law professor William
Cherry Moscato wines have been
Oliver turned a simple hobby
huge hits. Oliver’s latest offerings
into something extraordinary.
are the new Spritz Collection
Planting a vineyard northwest
wines, including Italian Lemon
of Bloomington in the Indiana
and Blood Orange Spritz. For
Uplands AVA, Professor Oliver
those who prefer drier wines, the
soon found his vines producing far
Flight Series has some wonderful
more grapes than a hobbyist could
offerings, including Cabernet,
use — and a vision for something
Shiraz, and the winery’s favorite
greater began to take shape.
blend, Casse-Tête.
Ever the advocate, Professor Oliver
In 2026, Oliver Winery
championed legislation that would
proudly celebrated 54 years of
change Indiana’s wine landscape
craftsmanship, community, and
forever. The Indiana Small Winery
bringing people together through
Act was passed in 1971, and Oliver
the shared joy of wine.
known for staging a variety of long running theatrical tributes to Lincoln’s Indiana roots. Recently, renewed investment has expanded the amphitheatre’s capabilities, seating, and technical infrastructure to support a wider range of programming. Today, the venue hosts an eclectic mix of concerts, theatre productions, and community events. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the state park, the Lincoln Amphitheatre blends history, culture, and outdoor entertainment. To learn more about upcoming shows and purchase tickets, call 812-937-2329 or go to
lincolnamphitheatre.com.
Winery officially opened its doors in 1972. Early success with Camelot Mead set the winery on a trajectory of steady growth, and today Oliver Winery distributes award-winning, fruit-forward wines to more than 40 states, with nationwide
Other finalists
shipping available.
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, Indianapolis
The winery is most well known in
Derby Dinner Playhouse, Clarksville
To purchase wines or learn more about the tasting room, visit oliverwinery.com or call 812-876-5800.
Other finalists Huber Winery, Borden Turtle Run Winery, Corydon
Indiana for its Sweet Red, Sweet
AUGUST 2026 19
INDIANA CONNECTION INDIANA EATS
Briny, bold, and built to last THE OYSTER BAR OFFERS 140 YEARS OF CULINARY EXCELLENCE IN FORT WAYNE BY STEPHANIE BERNABA
The Oyster Bar has been a fixture in downtown Fort Wayne since 1888, welcoming generations of diners seeking exceptional seafood and great company. Today, executive chef and business partner Tony West honors this legacy while leading the restaurant into a bold new era. “My culinary journey started in greasy spoon restaurants in the morning and high-end eateries across the country at night,” West shared. This unconventional background has shaped a chef who values grit, creativity, and quality equally. “We can’t be mediocre in Indiana
This confidence shines in every dish. Guests can enjoy razor clams, creamy Kumamoto oysters, Louisiana barbecue shrimp, and staples like calamari and New England clam chowder. The diver scallops over applewood bacon risotto with vanilla cognac sauce have earned a loyal following. For newcomers, West offers the raw bar experience at the table, shucking oysters tableside and guiding guests through the varieties and the significance of
THE OYSTER BAR 1830 S. Calhoun St. Fort Wayne, IN 46802 fwoysterbar.com Reservations are recommended. In the post-pandemic landscape, West believes diners crave connection as much as, if not more than, great food. After years of isolation, guests are willing to invest more in a night out that offers excellent cuisine in an enchanting atmosphere. His goal is for every guest to feel completely at home. “The oyster bar is where strangers become friends,” he said. He embodies this belief through
preserving the briny liquid.
his active presence — working
“That is the best bite in the oyster,”
circulating through the dining
he said. “That ocean water sitting there marinating that oyster up.”
the line five or six nights a week, area, and closing on holidays to allow his team to rest and recharge.
when it comes to seafood,” he
‘WHERE STRANGERS BECOME FRIENDS’
West’s long hours are driven
added. “You have to be hitting it.”
The story extends beyond the
living out your dream and
CULINARY CONFIDENCE West’s vision is evident throughout The Oyster Bar’s menu. He sources seafood through small purveyors and maintains industry relationships cultivated during his cross-country experience. A mentor once told him, “You never have to think outside the box if you don’t put yourself in one to begin with,” a philosophy that inspires a menu bursting with culinary confidence.
20 AUGUST 2026
menu. The building itself breathes history. With only six owners in nearly 140 years, it has sheltered Prohibition-era moonshiners and hosted infamous figures like Al Capone and John Dillinger. At just 21, West boldly declared his intent to buy The Oyster Bar to then-owner Steve Gard. Twenty-five years later, he made good on that promise, purchasing the restaurant with his wife and business partner, Kara.
by purpose. “When you’re passion,” he said, “it’s easy.” PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE OYSTER BAR
FLYING LINEMEN UTILIZE INNOVATIVE HELICOPTER APPROACH IN BANDON PROJECT
I
OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW
lines between Tell City North
the flying linemen began a
f you were in the right place at the right time near a 12-
mile stretch of transmission and Bandon Substation in early April, you might have caught a glimpse of flying linemen tethered underneath a helicopter, soaring through the air as part of Hoosier Energy’s Bandon Static Wire Replacement Project.
SAVING FIVE MONTHS OF WORK It was the first time using that approach for Hoosier, but it delivered in efficiency, as wire was replaced across 95 structures in less than three weeks rather than six months. The contractor on the project, Intren, hired the helicopter crew, with the linemen coming from California to perform the
With the prep work done,
First, the helicopter flew the
arises and it fits a need as this one
linemen out to each structure to remove the old hardware and pull the static wire out. Much of the old wire had multiple splices, in
identified the regulators needed to support the substation. They installed them a month before the project began to supply members with power.
did, we’ve got another tool in our belt,” said Hoosier Energy Senior Project Manager Steven Jones.
trees and limbs falling on the line in the past. These incidents weren’t the primary reason for the replacement, but they were a contributing factor. During the removal of the old wire, a few structures were found to be unsafe for landing and required replacement. These were structures that had been examined in the past but had
With sound structures in place
duration of the project, they
helicopter, but if the opportunity
some cases more than 20, from
Before anyone took to the skies,
a section of the line out for the
“We have other projects where it doesn’t make sense to bring in the
unseen damage higher up.
Power had its part to play. With
back remains to be seen.
two-part process.
aerial line work.
local cooperative Southern Indiana
of the wind. When they will be
and the old static wire removed, the linemen made a second pass through all 95 structures to install the new static wire, restore hardware, and tie the lines together. And just like that, the flying linemen disappeared on the wings
AUGUST 2026 21
INDIANA CONNECTION HOOSIER ENERGY
REVOLUTIONIZING power line maintenance
INDIANA CONNECTION TRAVEL
WHERE THE
BUFFALO ROAM
WILD WINDS BUFFALO PRESERVE
EXPERIENCE THE MAJESTY OF THE AMERICAN PRAIRIE AT WILD WINDS BUFFALO PRESERVE
Contact information, events, and news are best found on their Facebook page.
6975 N. Ray Rd., Fremont, IN 46737
BY NATALIE DERRICKSON
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE STEUBEN COUNTY TOURISM BUREAU
W
hile a certain Montana-based
“Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve
Guided tours are offered
TV show may have partly
in Fremont gives visitors a
Wednesday through Sunday
inspired renewed interest in a slower
chance to experience something
during the summer and fall, from
lifestyle and a deeper connection
that feels more like the
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the preserve
with nature, a visit to the Treasure
American prairie than northern
closing at 4 p.m. Tickets can be
State isn’t the only way to reconnect
Indiana,” said Janet Hartsuff,
purchased on-site for $14 for adults
with the great outdoors.
Steuben County Tourism
and $9 for children ages 3 to 10.
Bureau communications
Children under 2 are free.
Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve is a special place, a haven, for the majestic American Bison, which are linked to Indiana’s history yet were largely eradicated for over 100 years. Home to over 200 bison that roam
manager. “The open-air vehicle tour is just outstanding. The guides are so knowledgeable, and you can get surprisingly close to the herd.”
Guests are invited to visit the Wild Winds gift shop, which is open from May through October. There, guests can shop for handcrafted pottery, stunning jewelry, and even
the 400-acre preserve, Wild Winds
During the open-air tour, guests
fresh-frozen buffalo meat. If your
offers visitors a unique experience
travel through the preserve and
first visit has you hooked, book a
across the grounds and among the
follow the bison across seven
stay at their bed-and-breakfast,
herd, and guides provide valuable
fields. In the spring, calves are
featuring bison blankets and
conservation and stewardship
born and then stay with their
impressive log-hewn beds, to
education along the way.
mothers for the next year.
make your visit truly magical.
22 AUGUST 2026
INDIANA CONNECTION DIY
Add dimension to your space ELEVATE YOUR WALLS WITH TEXTURE AND COLOR BY TJ LEININGER
C
hanging the color of
applying the base
your walls is a way to add
color and waiting 24
personality and warmth to your
hours, lightly dip a
home, but if you want to take a
cheesecloth or linen
room to another level, try adding
rag in the top-layer
real or faux texture with paint,
color, scrunch it, then
joint compound, and tools. It adds
roll or dab it onto the
charm, hides imperfections, and
wall. Work in one small
can even increase durability.
area at a time to keep the finish
with a putty knife and repeat
consistent. Other tools that work
your application steps, or reset
well for mimicking texture include
the area with a skim coating —
sponges, stiff-bristled brushes,
a thin layer of joint compound
and sprayers.
that creates a smooth surface.
The simplest method is using a paint product with built-in texture, such as Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Hammered paint or Krylon Fusion All-In-One textured spray paint and primer. Many options mimic wood, metal, and stone in a wide range of colors. For subtle dimension without extra work, you can also use additives like
If you’re using joint compound, follow the package directions when preparing. The consistency should be similar to thick pancake batter. Select the proper size of drywall knife for the texture style you’ve
Zinsser Roll-A-Tex Sand Finish.
chosen. Then start in a corner
If you prefer more depth and
manageable sections. The edges of
richness, joint compound is the way to go. There are dozens of tried-and-true styles to choose from, such as knockdown, orange peel, shoelace, and slap brush.
From flat to full of life Once you’ve picked your colors and products, cleaned and primed the walls, and tested your method on a small patch, you are ready for application. Rag rolling is a simple technique to create a fabric-like texture using two colors. After
and work your way inward in
Be sure to feather the edges so that everything blends cleanly. Most importantly, remember, textured walls aren’t meant to be perfect. A little variation adds character. Trust your eye, take your time, and you will end up with walls that are anything but ordinary.
the previous patch should still be wet when you begin next to it, to ensure a seamless transition. Once you’ve completed the compound step and waited at least 24 hours for it to dry, finish by applying a primer and paint color with a thick-nap roller.
An imperfect masterpiece If the end product doesn’t live up to your vision, don’t sweat it. Most texture mistakes are easy to fix.
TJ Leininger is the store manager of Enyart’s Hardware in Rochester, a Do it Best member. Do it Best is a Fort Wayne-based home improvement cooperative supporting thousands of hardware stores, home centers, and lumberyards throughout the U.S. and worldwide. (This article is for informational purposes only. Indiana Connection and Do it Best assume no liability for the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, or for injuries, property damage, or the outcome of any project.)
You can scrape off joint compound AUGUST 2026 23
36 FEBRUARY 2019