Kosciusko REMC — September 2018 Electric Consumer

Kosciusko REMC

YOUR INDIANA COOPERATIVE COMPANION

Find

hidden treasures at your local thrift shop

SEPT EM BER 2 0 1 8

PAGE 21

lowest rates in indiana KREMC committed to doing what’s best for you

from the editor

Goodwill hunting Some shop because they have to — their shopping list rarely strays from just “the necessities.” For others, shopping is a hobby — something to do to while away a free Saturday.

VOLUME 68 • NUMBER 3 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by:

I, though, shop for the thrill of a bargain. Show me a 70 percent off sign, and I’m off and running toward it. I instinctively know when the best seasonal sales are and I can whip out coupons as quickly as I can pull out a credit card.

So I could really relate to this month’s cover story about Mike and Tammy Martin, and Kim Gray, who have uncovered treasures at one of my favorite bargain haunts, Goodwill.

You never know what you’ll encounter when you enter a Goodwill but more often than not you’ll find something that amuses or intrigues you without impacting your budget too much.

My favorite Goodwill purchases — all acquired for $5 or less — have included a highend store black velvet jacket that I’ve worn to numerous cocktail-attire functions, an Oriental rug, an antique bookcase, and a vintage metal first aid kit. While vacationing in Stratford, Ontario, last year, my husband and I happened upon a Goodwill where a favorable U.S.-Canada exchange rate made the New York and London canvas prints we purchased less than $2 a piece. At other Goodwills, I’ve scooped up rolls of never-opened Christmas wrapping paper, beautifully crafted Indian saris and a cute evening bag.

Did I actually need everything I bought? Admittedly, no.

And perhaps one day, my thrifty finds will end back up at another Goodwill. But for now one person’s trash is my treasure, and this gal is all about treasure hunting!

ELECTRIC CONSUMER is for and about members of Indiana’s locally-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives. It helps consumers: use electricity safely and efficiently; understand energy issues; connect with their co-op; and celebrate life in Indiana.

Over 272,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership.

CONTACT US: 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600 Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606 317-487-2220 ec@ElectricConsumer.org ElectricConsumer.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS Gary Gerlach President Walter Hunter Vice President Randy Kleaving Secretary/Treasurer Tom VanParis Chief Executive Officer EDITORIAL STAFF Emily Schilling Editor Richard George Biever Senior Editor Holly Huffman Member Relations/ Advertising Manager Ellie Schuler Senior Communication Specialist ADVERTISING Crosshair Media, 502-216-8537; crosshairmedia.net GLM Communications, Inc., 212-929-1300; glmcommunications.com

EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@electricconsumer.org

Paid advertisements are not endorsements by any electric cooperative or this publication.

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $12 for individuals not subscribing through participating REMCs/RECs.

On the menu: December issue — Christmas candy: deadline

Sept. 14. January — Instant Pot recipes: deadline Oct. 12. If we publish your recipe on our food page, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Reader Submissions page: December — Christmas light displays: deadline Sept. 14.

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

entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website ElectricConsumer.org; email ec@ElectricConsumer.org; or send to Electric Consumer, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Readers who receive Electric Consumer through their electric co-op membership should report address changes to their local co-op.

POSTAGE: Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, Ind., and at additional mailing offices.

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

Include key number.

No portion of Electric Consumer may be reproduced without permission of the editor.

SEPTEMBER 2018

3

contents

SEPTEMBER

12

16

insights 03 FROM THE EDITOR 05 CO-OP NEWS What’s happening at your local electric cooperative.

10 ENERGY The business of energy savings.

12 INSIGHTS Project Indiana volunteers help Guatemalan villagers form electric cooperatives.

Indiana eats 14 PRODUCT PICKS High-tech bathrooms.

16 INDIANA EATS Lafayette’s Midtowne Oven Restaurant has some of the state’s best pizza.

17 FOOD A taste of time: Sharing your heirloom recipes.

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ElectricConsumer

4

21

38

cover story 21 COVER STORY Vintage finds can be fashionable and profitable.

30 EVENTS CALENDAR 32 DO-IT-YOURSELF Upgrade your outdated bathroom.

33 SAFETY Understanding your home’s electrical system.

profile

34 BACKYARD Mystery plants and bumper crops.

36 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS 37 READER SUBMISSIONS Photographs and memories.

38 PROFILE Enduring gridiron lessons from former Purdue football player Jon Goldsberry.

On the cover

Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/Electriconsumer

A bit of this, a bit of that. You never know what

Find us on Pinterest www.pinterest.com/Electriconsumer

neighborhood garage sale. Indianapolis area bargain

Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/ElectricConsumer

not only creatively repurposed what others might cast

SEPTEMBER 2018

treasures you’ll discover at your local thrift store or hunters Mike and Tammy Martin and Kim Gray have away, they’ve made money from their flea market finds.

co-op news

Lowest rates in Indiana KREMC committed to doing what’s best for you www.kremc.com CONTACT US Local: 574-267-6331 Toll-Free: 800-790-REMC EMAIL mail@kremc.com OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday-Friday ADDRESS 370 S. 250 E., Warsaw, IN 46582 SERVICE INTERRUPTIONS To report a service interruption after hours, please call 267-6331 or 800-790-REMC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS William Stump Jr., Chairman Dan Tucker, Vice Chairman John Hand, Secretary/Treasurer Kim Buhrt Terry Bouse Tony Fleming Pam Messmore Steve Miner Rick Parker

INDOOR FANS Turn off kitchen, bath and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after you’re done cooking or bathing.

When replacing exhaust fans, consider installing high-efficiency, low-noise models.

It’s official: KREMC has the lowest residential electric rates in the state. We just received the annual ranking of Indiana’s rates from the state organization that compiles these numbers.

This is not the first time we’ve topped this list. I wish I knew how many years we’ve held that honor, but I know it is quite a few.

This statistic is a source of pride for the KREMC board of directors, the employees and me.

This year, we’re especially proud because we have the lowest rates not just among electric cooperatives but among other reporting utilities — including the large investor-owned companies.

Year after year, we feel like we are tooting our own horn as we remind our membership of our success in keeping your rates as low as possible. But I think it’s important to let you know about this for a couple reasons.

Number one: You, as a member, need to know that we are steadfastly dedicated to keeping expenses low. We are always looking out for you.

Number two: I’m honestly proud of this fact because it’s a team effort.

Every employee who works here contributes to our success. Our collection process keeps the bad debt and write offs to a minimum.

Our linemen install and maintain quality equipment in the field to provide consistent and reliable power. The management staff works tirelessly to develop and oversee their departmental budgets. The board of directors analyzes long term financial decisions which affect the rates. Our IT team spends countless hours on process improvements and investigating new affordable technology.

These are just a few examples, but we make these decisions each and every day with one thought in mind: what is best for you, our membership.

In the end, it shows.

BRUCE GOSLEE President and CEO

— U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

KREMC rates and rebates Use your Co-op Connections Card to save at local businesses Blue Heron Guest House in Winona Lake 10 percent off from November through March theblueheronguesthouse.com Like us on Facebook

RATES

REBATES

Residential and farm service Service charge ............................$24.50 per month Kilowatt-hour (kWh) charge ......@$.0922 per kWh Tracker charge..........................$-.003297 per kWh

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

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

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

www.facebook.com/kosciuskoremc

SEPTEMBER 2018

5

co-op news

Homes on Parade Are you looking for some fresh ideas for your home?

What better place to get those ideas than the 2018 Homes on Parade event brought to you by the Builders Association of Kosciusko and Fulton Counties (BAKFC)?

This annual event is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 21 (4 to 8 p.m.), Saturday, Sept. 22 (noon to 8 p.m.), and Sunday, Sept. 23 (noon to 6 p.m.)

Participating builders and home locations include: • Coplen Construction: 250 EMS C29 Lane, Warsaw

• Milestone Construction: 11133 N. East Wawasee Drive, Syracuse • Renewal Homes: 16 Trailside Drive, Winona Lake • Timber Rock Construction: 12 Trailside Drive, Winona Lake

KREMC members receive one free admission with coupon (printed above!). Admission to the Homes on Parade is $5.

For more information on the Homes on Parade, visit the BAKFC website at www.bakfc.com.

If you haven’t tried our online Home Energy Advisor yet, check it out today! Go to kremc.com. Head to your account and select the “My Usage” tab. Once you’re there, enter the details of your home, and you will receive a personalized home energy report with savings tips that fit your budget. That’s it! Easy as pie!

6

SEPTEMBER 2018

co-op news

Operation Round Up grants awarded between July 1, 2017, and June 30, 2018 GRANTEE

DATE

AMOUNT

Cardinal Services Inc. of Indiana

8/30/2017

-$2,378.69

Housing Opportunities of Warsaw Inc.

9/11/2017

$4,400

Kosciusko Literacy Services Inc.

9/11/2017

$1,500

Real Services of Kosciusko County

9/11/2017

$4,000

Servants at Work Inc.

9/11/2017

$5,000

Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation

9/11/2017

$3,500

Women of Grace USA

9/11/2017

$1,000

Lakeland Community Services Inc.

11/6/2017

-$761.26

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana Inc.

12/4/2017

$2,500

Boomerang Backpacks Inc.

12/4/2017

$5,000

The Otis R. Bowen Center for Human Services Inc.

12/4/2017

$3,000

Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry Inc.

12/4/2017

$5,000

Little Lambs Preschool/Daycare Ministry Inc.

12/4/2017

$2,500

Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church

12/4/2017

$3,000

Tippecanoe Valley Middle School

12/4/2017

$1,500

Turning Point Inc.

12/4/2017

$3,460

to “winterize” your online

Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department

12/4/2017

$1,500

account.

Grace College and Seminary

3/5/2018

$4,250

Grace Lutheran Church

3/5/2018

$4,000

Lakeland Youth Center

3/5/2018

$1,136

Kosciusko County 4-H Council Inc.

3/22/2018

-$229.39

Cardinal Services Inc. of Indiana

5/9/2018

-$423.10

Baker Youth Club

6/4/2018

$5,000

College Mentors for Kids

6/4/2018

$1,000

Fort Wayne Philharmonic Inc.

6/4/2018

$500

Girl Scouts of Northern Indiana-Michiana

6/4/2018

$3,000

Kate's Kart Inc.

6/4/2018

$3,000

Kosciusko County Council on Aging and Aged Inc.

6/4/2018

$4,950

Lutheran Social Services of Indiana Inc.

6/4/2018

$2,500

McMillen Center for Health Education Inc.

6/4/2018

$2,500

Milestones Early Education Center

6/4/2018

$2,500

Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation

6/4/2018

$2,000

Warsaw Community School Corporation

6/4/2018

$2,005

Wawasee High School

6/4/2018

$2,000

TOTAL

$82,920

Closing your lake house?

Headed out of town for the winter? We will miss you, but before you go, take a minute

If you have a lake home that you leave empty over the cold months, be sure to open your online account with us, so you can keep an eye on things via your usage reports.

Watching your daily use can help you determine if there are any issues or causes for concern before heading back to your lake house in the spring.

If you’re going to pack up and head out for the winter, don’t forget to log on and set up your account.

Go to KREMC.com/service and spend the winter with a little more peace of mind.

SEPTEMBER 2018

7

co-op news

8

SEPTEMBER 2018

energy

The business of energy savings How commercial rebates can save your business money

You don’t need a business degree

efficient lighting, HVAC equipment,

to understand that when you’re

energy-efficient motor equipment,

running a commercial operation,

compressed air systems, and any

you need to manage costs. And one

energy-efficient upgrade that may

of the easiest ways to save on your

be applicable for a custom program.

monthly energy bills is to invest in energy-efficient equipment and appliances.

When businesses switch to energyefficient equipment, not only are they lowering their electric bills with

While energy-smart lighting and

their decreased energy use, they are

machines run on less electricity

also helping to keep prices low for

and can last years longer than

everyone. With lower demand for

their traditional counterparts,

electricity, the need for expensive

they sometimes come with higher

construction to expand the energy-

upfront purchase prices. A higher

providers’ power plants can be

price tag may be hard to justify

delayed, keeping rates low

when an owner is watching the

for all members.

business’s bottom line.

To learn more

But thanks to rebates from your

about how your business

electric cooperative’s power supplier

can start cutting costs each

— either Hoosier Energy in southern

month, visit

Indiana or Wabash Valley Power

TeamUpToSave.com or

in the northern half of the state —

PowerMoves.com, or

business owners have access to

contact your local

immediate savings.

electric cooperative.

Buying LED bulbs and water heaters through a cooperative — and taking advantage of rebates — has benefited residential members for a while. However, many businesses may not be aware that they qualify for the same types of discounts on an industrial level. These rebates and incentives apply to the purchase and installation of energy-

10

SEPTEMBER 2018

by

Michaela Cox

Marketing and member services intern at Orange County REMC

insights

letter

TO THE EDITOR ARTICLE GIVES HOPE There are tears in my eyes after reading “A Golden Age” in July’s edition

Jennifer Rufatto (third from left), vice president of communication and human resources at Indiana Electric Cooperatives, and Steve McMichael (third from right), board member from Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative, pose for a photo with community leaders during a recent trip to Guatemala to train staff at two newly formed co-ops.

who is

Project Indiana helps developing co-ops

almost a year old, was diagnosed

Project Indiana, the initiative formed

Aqua Dulce. Then from July 30–Aug. 1,

with myelomeningocele spina

to bring power and brighter futures to

Paulding Putnam CEO/General Man-

bifida before birth. We elected to

developing countries, is going be-

ager George Carter and Ron Holcomb,

have her lesion repaired prenatally

yond setting poles and stringing lines

CEO of Linden, Indiana-based Tipmont

last May to hopefully give her the

in rural Guatemala — straight to the

REMC were in Guatemala to train those

best outcomes even though there

boardroom.

co-ops’ staffs. The co-ops have been

of Electric Consumer.

Our youngest daughter,

is no cure for spina bifida. She is doing wonderfully, which is so very encouraging. Being new to raising a child with special needs is a little intimidating since there are so many

In June, Project Indiana volunteers, Steve McMichael, board member from Paulding, Ohio-based Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative, and Jennfer

trying to establish solid groundwork, trust and financial practices to help them serve the nearly 11,000 people in their service territories.

Rufatto, vice president of communi-

“We bring electricity to places that don’t

cation and human resources at Indi-

have it, but we can’t stop there,” Rufatto

ana Electric Cooperatives, traveled to

said. She hopes that, armed with their

Guatemala to train board members

training, leaders at the Hoja Blanca and

opportunities no matter what.

of the country’s two recently formed

Aqua Dulce can help start other co-ops

from Charmian Klem, Bretzville

electric cooperatives — Hoja Blanca and

in Guatemala.

Team Indiana brings home the gold — and silver and bronze

APPLY FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS

Indiana’s Special Olympics athletes represented the state well at the Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle in July.

Community-minded youth in grades

Team Indiana earned 17 gold medals, 13 silver medals and 12 bronze medals. Nine athletes placed fourth, six placed fifth, one placed seventh and two placed eighth.

winner will receive $500. Winners will

unknowns, so this article gave me an extra boost of hope that her future will be bright and she have wonderful

Powerlifter David Paul from Milan, who was highlighted in the July Electric Consumer cover story, “A Golden Age,” was awarded a bronze medal in bench press.

Some 3,500 athletes from all over the country competed in 14 sports. Forty athletes from Indiana participated in the games.

12

SEPTEMBER 2018

5-8 are encouraged to apply for the Youth Power and Hope Awards. Each be formally recognized at the Indiana Electric Cooperatives annual meeting in Indianapolis on Dec. 4. They will also be featured on the pages of Electric Consumer.

Five winners will be selected. Though applicants do not have to live within an REMC/REC territory, they must reside in Indiana.

Deadline to apply is Oct. 5.

To learn more and to find application forms, please visit our website: www.ElectricConsumer.org.

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product picks

H I G H-T E C H

4

bathrooms

1

Turn your bathroom into a personal spa and pamper yourself with this luxurious collection of health and beauty gadgets.

by JAY N E C A N N ON

2

5

3

6 1

2

DENTAL TAG TEAM

TOASTY TOWELS

You hear it on every visit to the dentist—brush and floss. Maybe it’s time to step up your dental game with the Waterpik Complete Care Flosser and Oscillating Toothbrush System, featuring both functions in a single countertop device. Your teeth and your dentist will thank you. $100.

800-462-3966; bedbathandbeyond.com

Is anything more luxurious than wrapping your just-from-theshower body in a warm towel? The Amba Brushed Nickel Towel Warmer has plenty of room for all sizes of towels and washcloths and it’s programmable, so you can look forward to warm bath linens whenever you like. $776.

800-445-6937; lowes.com

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SEPTEMBER 2018

3

4

5

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WAX WONDER

EASY CLEAN

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No need to head to a salon for baby-smooth skin and expensive wax treatments. With the ParaSpa Plus Paraffin Bath, you’ll use the combination of heat and hypoallergenic wax to get spa-level results right in your own home. $40.

800-466-3342; homedics.com

Let’s face it: Cleaning the bathroom is no fun, especially when it comes to mopping around all those nooks and crannies—unless you have an iRobot Braava jet 240 Mopping Robot.

Program the square droid to sweep and mop all your tile, stone and hardwood floors and cross that chore off your to-do list forever. $170.

800-462-3966; bedbathandbeyond.com

The Nokia Body Composition Wi-Fi Scale is like your own personal weight coach.

This smart scale also calculates your body fat, sends your weigh-in to an app on your phone and even gives you the daily weather forecast. It stores data for up to eight individual users. Talk about a support group! $100.

800-430-3376; nokia.com.

You walk out of the bathroom, your makeup perfectly on point. It’s all good until you glance into the car’s rearview mirror and realize that bathroom light and natural light are not the same. You’ll have no more makeup mishaps with the Simplehuman Sensor Lighted Makeup Vanity Mirror. There’s even a magnification mirror for close-up work. $250.

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83921

10”

Indiana eats

Fresh from the oven LAFAYETTE RESTAURANT’S PIZZA AMONG STATE’S BEST State Sen. Ron Alting likens the Midtowne

olis Star in February. Pizza lovers can also

Trail. If you’re a fan of Italian food, you’ll

Oven Restaurant in his hometown of

create their own masterpieces from a wide

want to head to Lafayette to try Midtowne

Lafayette to an evening in the Big Easy —

array of toppings, including the restau-

Oven yourself.

even though this highly rated hangout is

rant’s homemade mozzarella. Those who

in Purdue Boilermaker country. “The ambi-

are following a gluten-free diet can select a

ence reminds me of a New Orleans setting

cauliflower crust as the base for their pizza.

with large windows so you may dine while looking outside,” Alting said.

In the mood for something besides a slice?

Midtowne Oven offers appeitizers includ-

ABOUT STATE SEN. RON ALTING: Indiana State Sen. Ron Alting represents Senate District 22 in Tippecanoe County.

He chairs the Senate Public Policy Committee and serves on the Civil Law Committee.

Though the atmosphere is unbeatable, the

ing meatballs and Brussel Sprout Skewers;

pizza is actually the claim to fame at the

soups and salads; chicken, pork and pasta

restaurant, just one of several owned by

entrees; and three equally tempting choic-

Doug Cooper. “They are famous for their

es on its dessert menu (Beer Bread, Creme

pizzas baked in a real wood-burning oven,”

Brulee and Midtowne S’more, a multi-lay-

Alting said. Patrons can choose from Ex-

ered masterpiece of a buttery chocolate

ecutive Chef/General Manager (and Carroll

cookie crust, bourbon fudge, homemade

White REMC member) Dennis Raney’s

marshmallow and pecan cream).

625 Columbia St. Lafayette, Indiana

Hoosier foodies who appreciate their

765-423-7739

“cuisine d’Italia” have discovered Midtowne

Hours: 4 to 11 p.m., Monday through Saturday

homemade specialties incuding the Ravine, a sausage and fresh sage concoction finished with a drizzle of homemade apple butter, that was named one of Central Indiana’s Top Five Pizzas by the Indianap-

16

SEPTEMBER 2018

Oven because the Indiana Foodways Alliance included it on its 19-restaurant Italian

MIDTOWNE OVEN RESTAURANT

midtowneoven.com

food

a taste of

time

THESE RECIPES HAVE BEEN IN THE FAMILY FOR YEARS

German Heritage Cheesy Potato Soup

by Jan Hackman, Columbus 6 potatoes, diced 8 oz. baby carrots (½ bag) 6 oz. (1 cup) chopped broccoli 1 t. salt 1 oz. (2 T.) minced onion 2 T. corn starch ¼ t. pepper 4 slices of ham, diced 1½ inches from block of pasteurized, processed cheese Parsley flakes Fill 4 quart saucepan half full with water. Add in potatoes, carrots, and broccoli. Add salt and onion, and bring to a boil and cook for 30 minutes. Mix corn starch with a small amount of cold water and stir into soup to thicken. Add pepper, ham, and cheese. When the cheese is melted, add a sprinkling of parsley flakes and stir. Serve hot.

JULY 2018

17

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

Pigs in Blankets

Juamsetti

by Sheila Reed, Bremen 1 lb. ground beef, browned

Pigs in Blankets (Golompki)

by Patricia Piekarski, Harvey, Illinois

1 can cream of mushroom soup

½ cup rice, uncooked

1 can tomato soup

1 medium head cabbage

8 oz. noodles, parboiled

1 lb. ground meat (½ beef, ½ pork)

until al dente

1 egg

Salt and pepper to taste

1 small onion, chopped and

Shredded cheddar cheese

sauteed in margarine

Bread crumbs

¼ cup water 1 t. salt

Mix ground beef, soups and

Dash of pepper

noodles together. Season with

½ cup catsup

salt and pepper. Pour into sprayed

8 oz. can tomato sauce

baking dish (9x13 for a thinner casserole, 8x10 for a thicker

Boil rice and set aside. Core cabbage and

version). Top with shredded

partially cook (about 5 minutes). Remove

cheddar cheese. Sprinkle with

leaves from head. Mix cooked rice, meat,

bread crumbs. Bake at 350 F

egg, onion, water, and seasonings.

for 45 minutes or until cheese is melted and casserole is bubbly.

Place about 2 tablesppons of filling in each cabbage leaf, roll up and tuck ends in. Mix catsup, tomato sauce and enough water to cover rolls. Place extra cabbage leaves in bottom of pan and on top of rolls. Bake 2 hours at 325 F or

18

until tender.

SEPTEMBER 2018

Mother’s Banana Cake

by Denise Hershman, Ligonier ½ cup shortening 1 t. vanilla 2 cups sugar 2 cups flour 2 eggs Pinch of salt 2 T. buttermilk 1 cup mashed bananas Mix first seven ingredients together. Then add mashed bananas. Bake in a greased 9x13 pan for 1 hour at 350 F.

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cover story

e l In with a S

0 5 .

2 the old $ MAKING VINTAGE FASHIONABLE AND PROFITABLE ARTICLES BY RICHARD G. BIEVER

"Nostalgia,” some quip, “ain’t what it used to be.” But, that’s an old joke that’s just gotten older.

“Vintage” is now in. What’s old is hotter, cooler, groovier and hipper than ever.

Thanks to Pinterest, eBay, HGTV and popular TV shows like American Pickers, Pawn Stars, and (the granddaddy of them all) PBS’ Antiques Roadshow, there’s a giant audience of people infused with creative, shared and innovative ideas and a fascination with the past. Toss in their concern about their own individual environmental footprints, and they have made antiquing and repurposing old household and vintage items — turning yesterday’s landfill fodder into decorative or useful items with a personal tale — fashionable and profitable.

This month, it’s “in with the old” as we meet some Hoosiers who pan through the dustbins and ash heaps of history looking for the fab and fashionable that will be treasured into the future.

SEPTEMBER 2018

21

cover story

Scavenger hunts for vintage items reap unexpected rewards

T

he “Lightning” logo hit Mike Martin like a bolt from the blue.

Only four letters — just L-I-G-H — popped out of a bin of clothes at a

“

It’s really just how much something is

Goodwill Outlet store. But Mike instantly

worth to somebody at

recognized the distinctive “L” that turned

the right time.

into a jagged electrical bolt as “Johnny Lightning,” a brand of die-cast race cars he collected in the early 1970s.

“I got very pumped when I pulled it out,” Mike said. “There’s this perfect blue shirt, unbelievable condition.”

And while a shirt with an embroidered

”

MIKE MARTIN had a two-year sponsorship with Johnny

Johnny Lightning logo across the back

Lightning,” he said.

would have been cool enough, Mike,

Those two years were 1970 and

age 53, sensed it was more than that.

1971 — when Unser won his first two

“Being an Indy 500 guy, I knew Al Unser

Indianapolis 500s. Mike’s heart skipped a beat as he pondered: Could this be an authentic Unser pit crew shirt from then?

TAPPING INTO VINTAGE Mike, an Avon, Indiana, resident, was

Props for a vintage wedding might include old suitcases, lanterns, lace doilies, antique pitchers and Ball jars, ornate solid wood picture frames and even an antique fireplace mantle.

They are used for welcoming signs, centerpieces and the like.

Vintage weddings have become popular in recent years as many couples shun the glitzy trappings of ballrooms and banquet halls. Instead, they are finding a bucolic beauty at venues close to nature which reflect the timelessness of the vows they’ve made.

Building an inventory of interesting vintage props took time. As Tammy’s principle prop procurer and roadie, Mike visited mostly garage and estate sales, flea markets, and thrift shops like Goodwill, Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity ReStores. “It’s really about finding hidden gems,” he said. “You never know what you’ll find … I’ve found some incredible things.”

visiting the outlet on Indianapolis' west side when he found the shirt, but he wasn’t there looking for shirts. He was making a periodic stop on his way home from work for his wife, Tammy.

Tammy had just started a decorating business — Vintage Wedding Decor and Floral — which provides props and decorations for weddings at venues like old barns converted into event centers.

“With a barn built a hundred years ago,”

FATEFUL 'LIGHTNING' Back at the Goodwill Outlet, Mike dropped the Johnny Lightning shirt into his cart. For a buck, he was buying it; he loved the Johnny Lightning logo.

When he got the shirt home, he began researching what he had. Like a detective, Mike pieced together an openshut case on the shirt’s authenticity.

Mike said, “you want vintage wedding

There was the circumstantial: a Google

decorations. So, I started going out

search of the custom shirt's maker,

looking for items.”

still tagged in the collar, showed it was made near the Torrance, California,

22

SEPTEMBER 2018

headquarters of the race team Unser was with at that time, Parnelli Jones.

Then, Mike checked out the 1970 and 1971 photo archives at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum where he found the contemporary evidence: scores of photos of Unser’s pit crew wearing the exact shirts down to the placement of the patches.

“I was able to verify that it was from 1970 which was the first of four that he won,” Mike said.

Mike said, probably is a common tale.

“I bet it belonged to someone on the west side [of Indianapolis] who worked out there that month for him, had a cool experience, went home and stuck it in his closet. As what usually happens with a lot of this stuff, grandpa passed away, and they were cleaning out his closet.”

Though he loved the shirt, Mike decided he had more stuff like that than he could ever display. As he had been doing with many of the interesting items he’d see

PHO TO BY RI CHARD G . BI EVER

Mike and Tammy Martin show off the cover and parts of a Maclise’s Surgical Anatomy book he found scattered in bins at a west side Indianapolis Goodwill Outlet. The book, published in 1859, belonged to a Civil War battlefield surgeon. Stuck inside the pages, the Martins found fading and yellowing hand-written notes and speeches, dated from 1866, that they think the doctor gave at conferences where he described battlefield hospital conditions and amputations he performed.

How the shirt ended up at Goodwill,

and buy while searching for Tammy’s business, Mike put the shirt up for sale on eBay. He asked $1,000, based on race items he was seeing. “I pretty much know what it’s worth when I sell it, or my best guess,” he said. Still, nothing he saw compared to the significance of a 1970 Al Unser winning pit crew shirt. “This was a one-of-a-kind kind of deal.”

For $10, Mike bought a box full of old

“It was the week of my in-laws’ 60th

sprint car racing programs and penciled

wedding anniversary,” Mike said.

in heat sheets from the 1960s. They came from dirt tracks around Indiana and neighboring states. Some of the programs included autographs of famed Indy 500 winners like Johnny Rutherford

“We wanted to take my dad to Florida one more time,” Tammy added. “And he died the next month. He got to go, and we had a really nice time.”

and Tom Sneva who must have still

It’s ironic that one person’s discarded

Immediately, an avid race fan from

been doing the dirt-track circuits.

memories could generate new, precious

Michigan contacted him. After an

Turning again to eBay, Mike divided the

offer and a counter offer, they agreed on $750. “It’s really just how much something is worth to somebody at the right time,” Mike said. “I happened to find the one guy who has an Al Unser/ Johnny Lightning collection.”

Another race-related find — this one at a garage sale — also brought a huge return.

box into three bundles and sold them separately, netting $390 in all.

MEMENTOS & MEMORIES In just the few years selling finds on

memories for others. But scavenging for treasures not only funded special family time for the Martins — it helps them fashion wedding decor for couples beginning their journeys as families.

Some things old really do create something new.

eBay, the Martins were able to fully fund an entire week’s vacation to Daytona Beach last year, including condominium, car rental and air fare for seven.

SEPTEMBER 2018

23

Kim Gray stands beside the antique mantle she bought after placing a classified ad in Electric Consumer back in the 1990s when she and her husband were planning to build their new home. The mantle had been used as a prop in a men’s clothing store in Lafayette. Gray said she likes knowing the history of the items that decorate her home.

PHO TO BY RI CHARD G . BI E V E R

What's the story?

NineStar consumer decorates with items that have a ‘history’ There was no joy in McCordsville the day Dylan Gray shattered more than just the air in his parent’s living room with a new baseball bat.

The bat, an inch longer than the ones he’d swung in there before, clipped the edge of his mom’s favorite serving tray resting on an ottoman. Even at a brush, the carbon polymer bat mangled the tray’s mango wood handle.

Dylan, a travel team and high school player, and dad, Bryan, who was focused on Dylan’s batting stance and feet, immediately ran to mom and spouse, Kim, to fess up about the foul tip. “They both were overly apologetic and taking the blame,” Kim said. She couldn’t be too mad.

Kim tried to fix the tray, but its splintered handle was beyond repair. Instead of trashing the tray, though, she let her knack and passion for creatively repurposing items take a whack at it.

It wasn’t as if the tray was a valuable heirloom.

The white-washed hand-carved vine pattern was just something she saw and liked at Pier

24

SEPTEMBER 2018

1. But when she was done, the “upcycled” tray became part of a multidimensional picture frame in the very room it was damaged. Part of those dimensions is the colorful story behind it. It’s yet another to go with the many decorative or useful items in the Gray home that have “history” behind them — in more ways than one.

“I didn’t want to throw it away because it was still pretty, even though it was cracked,” she said.

Kim, 54, is among a generation of folk – of all ages — which dimly views the “disposable society” we have become. Borrowing the prudent “waste-not” trait from the generation that came of age in the Great Depression, this generation has made “repurposing” and “upcycling” buzz words for both the fashionable and environmentally conscious.

“Part of it is I don’t like putting stuff in the landfill,” Kim said. The other part, she said, is the creative challenge of “making something out of nothing.”

“Usually it starts as inspiration — with a piece like the tray where I didn’t want to

“

You’ve got to go (shopping) with an open mind.

”

KIM GRAY throw it away. Then it becomes an obsession where I won’t stop till it’s done,” she said.

“I’m happier when I’m creating stuff.”

The former Electric Consumer staff member and member of NineStar Connect electric/ telecom cooperative on the east side of suburban Indianapolis, had previously devised a system of turning scrap wood into backgrounds for store-bought frames to enhance her photographs.

She did the same with the battered tray. She

used it as a background, centered a square picture frame in the middle that she affixed with a nail and velcro.

Trained in various forms of communications at Purdue University, Kim likes the stories behind both the simple and major pieces of furniture and art that decorate her home.

Some have family ties; others she was able to research and learn the background.

SECOND-HAND SAFETY What to avoid when buying used electrical devices Second-hand stores are great places to

the device or cord may have gotten

find bargains. They’re meccas for people

too hot;

looking for low-cost useful items and

When she and husband Bryan, an Indianapolis entrepreneur, began planning to build a new home on Geist Reservoir some 20 years ago, she wanted many of the home’s significant features to be antiques or reclaimed items. At the time, she handled classified ads for Electric Consumer and placed her own ad looking for antique fireplace mantles. She received responses from almost 20 readers.

“upcyclers” looking for trendy vintage

After she and Bryan had left a Louisville antique shop where they saw a beautiful wooden mantle that had a shell design for $9,000, she got a call from an Electric Consumer reader in Brookston, north of Lafayette. He described an old mantle he was selling for $500. It was just like the one they saw. “I saw how much the shell was, so it made me think, ‘I need that shell.’”

The mantle, probably dating to the 1870s, was rough but was in great shape overall.

It had been used last as a prop in a display window of the Baltimore Clothing House in Lafayette to help display mannequins modeling suits.

As a Purdue graduate, Kim loves that it came from the Lafayette area. After she stripped it and cleaned it up, carpenters built it in with the bookshelves, wainscoting and other woodwork of the new home’s study and finished it with the rest of the room.

A marble fireplace in their home, however, doesn’t have such a pedigree. “It really bothers me that I don’t know where the marble fireplace comes from because it was from an antique store,” Kim said.

items to repurpose.

But buyer beware when it comes to used electrical devices.

• deep dents, dings or cracks in the outer housing which could mean the item was dropped or mistreated; • scratches in the paint or damage to the housing of the device near the

Worse than not working, those devices

tiny screws that hold it together or

might be defective, have been recalled

to the screws themselves. This may

long ago by the manufacturer or have

indicate the device was opened by

been damaged. Any of those things

an untrained person, and its integrity

could make them fire or shock hazards.

may have been compromised.

Before buying a used electrical device,

If the item looks OK and you purchase it,

ask if you can plug it in to see if it works.

it’s best to have it inspected by an elec-

If you can’t do that, check the device

trician before using it. If you decide not

and power cord carefully. Don’t buy it if

to do that, at least plug it into a ground-

you see:

fault circuit interrupter first when you

• cracks or cuts in the cord’s insulation or the insulation feels brittle; • damage to the plug or prongs; • burn marks or discoloration where

check it out just to provide yourself a layer of safety.

UPCYCLING LAMPS IS A BRIGHT IDEA Go into any second-hand or thrift store, and you’re bound to see a brigade of old lamps varying in shapes and sizes and standing in formations like old soldiers waiting to be put back into use.

Unlike a lot of electrical devices, table and floor lamps are generally straight forward and easy to rewire for even the most rookie DIYer. Hardware stores carry a variety of new sockets with various switches, cords and plugs, and all the

While Kim and Bryan do some shopping at antique stores, she echoes the comments of others: The best places to shop for vintage items with which she can get creative are estate sales, garage sales and Goodwill.

threaded pieces, grommets and parts

The key piece of advice she offers to those interested in joining in the upcycling movement: Don’t go looking for a specific item. “You can’t go with: ‘I need a chair’; or ‘I need a —,’” Kim said. “Right now, I’m looking for a little console table, and, of course, I can’t find it. If I weren’t looking for it, I’d find it.

RICHARD G. BIEVER is senior editor

necessary to rewire an old lamp — or to create a new one from “upcycled” items — and attach the shade.

of Electric Consumer.

Electric Consumer Senior Editor Richard G. Biever refashioned an old kerosene lantern into an electrically powered lamp.

“You’ve got to go with an open mind.”

SEPTEMBER 2018

25

product recalls 1. Recessed downlights recalled for shock hazard

1

Ketra D3 recessed downlights have been recalled because the power supply connectors can have incorrect wiring, posing an electric shock hazard to the user. The lights were produced between Nov. 4, 2016, and March 14, 2018. The date code is located on a sticker attached to each unit and is in the format KWWYY representing WW-work week and YY-year of manufacture. Only downlights with date codes between K4816 and K1118 are included in this recall. The Ketra D3 downlight is typically installed behind a ceiling and the light generated by the LED illuminates the space below. The light fixture enclosure measures 18.5 inches by 10 inches by 4 inches. The downlight is dark gray and black and weighs approximately 8 pounds. The lights were sold by authorized Ketra lighting distributors and specialty audio/video stores nationwide from November 2016 through April 2018 for between $550 and $750.

Call 800-940-5917 or go to www.KetraRecall.com for more information.

2. Stanley workbench LED light and power stations recalled due to shock and electrocution hazards

2

Baccus Global has recalled Stanley workbench LED light and power stations because they are wired incorrectly, posing shock and electrocution hazards. The firm has received three reports of the units being wired incorrectly. No injuries have been reported. The recalled units are model number WLB40PS. The model number is printed on a sticker located on the back of the lighting panel. “Stanley” is printed in yellow by the outlets. They were sold at Sam’s Club stores nationwide and online from March through August 2017 for between $25 and $40.

Call 877-571-2391 or go to www.baccusglobal.com and click on “FAQ” for more information.

3. Werner recalls aluminum ladders due to fall hazard

3

Five models of Werner aluminum multi-purpose telescoping ladders have been recalled.

The ladders, ranging in size from 13-feet to 26-feet, can break while in use and pose a fall hazard to the user. The model numbers are: MT-IAA-13A; MT-IAA-17A; MT-IAA-22A; MT-IAA-26; and MT-IAA-26A. The model number is printed on a label located on the side of the ladder rail. The recalled ladders have a load capacity of 375 pounds and were sold at Home Depot and Lowe’s stores nationwide from April through May 2018 for between $180 and $275.

Call 888-523-3370, or visit www.wernerco.com/us/en/news-events/recalls.

4. Regency Fireplace Products recalls gas stove fireplaces due to explosion and injury hazards

4

Regency Ultimate direct vent gas stove fireplaces, models U37 and U39, have been recalled. The pressure release system can fail and cause the gas stove to explode, posing explosion and injury hazards. The units were sold by fireplace distributors and stores nationwide from January 2001 through January 2018 for about $2,800. They were sold in black and have gold or silver trim around the glass doors. “Regency” is printed on the front, bottom left corner of the pedestals of the stoves.

Call 866-867-4328 or visit www.regency-fire.com and click on “U39 recall notice” at the bottom of the page for more information.

As a service to our readers and to promote electrical safety, here are some recent recall notices provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Visit www. cpsc.gov/en/recalls for full details of these recalls and for notices of many more.

26

SEPTEMBER 2018

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Request an absentee ballot.

SEPTEMBER 2018

27

Always call 811 before starting fencing & landscaping projects.

Landowners completing these projects were more than three times more likely to hit a buried utility because they did not call 811 before breaking ground.

Bourbon Trail

KY Horse Park

Frankfort

Elkhorn Creek

The Centerpiece of Your Kentucky Experience Adventure. Art. Bluegrass. Bourbon.

History. Horses.

Frankfort is close to home, and close to the fun.

Stay in Frankfort, Play in Kentucky!

Castle & Key Distillery

Learn more at visitfrankfort.com or call us at 800-976-7200

Jeptha Creed Distillery

Downtown Frankfort

Keeneland

Berea Artisan Center

calendar NORTHWEST

7

LITTLE COUSIN JASPER FESTIVAL, Rensselaer (Jasper), Historic courthouse square. Three days of family fun, arts and crafts, food, games, parade, contests and free daily entertainment. Free. 219-866-5001. facebook.com/LCJROCKS

1516

29

43RD ANNUAL TRAIL OF COURAGE LIVING HISTORY FESTIVAL, Rochester (Fulton), Fulton County Historical Society. Foods cooked over wood fires, contests, crafts, canoe rides, historic programs, dances, music and more. Saturday, 10 am-6 pm. Sunday, 10 am-4 pm. Admission: $8 adults, $3 children (6-11), kids five and under are free. 574-2234436. fultoncountyhistory.org/trailof-courage

FALL HARVEST TRAINS, North Judson (Starke), Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum. Take a scenic journey through the countryside while enjoying the fall colors. The 10-mile, roundtrip excursions last approximately 45 minutes. Event times: 12:30 and 2 pm (Central Time). Cost: $6 and up. 574-896-3950. hoosiervalley.org

CENTRAL

6-8

TIPTON COUNTY PORK FESTIVAL, Tipton (Tipton), Historic downtown. Pork, food vendors. New wine and beer garden. Car and motorcycle show. Carnival, free concerts, arts and crafts, parades, pageant. Easy park and ride shuttle. Free.

317-513-4086. tiptoncountyporkfestival.com.

1415

WENDELL WILLKIE DAYS, Rushville (Rush), downtown. Friday — covered bridge dinner. Saturday — parade, wine tasting, games, vendors, art show, farmer’s market, music, touch a truck, mascot olympics. Sunday — Out of the Darkness Walk. Free. 765-932-2880. rushcounty.com.

ANNUAL GATHERING 22 2ND OF STREET SIDE VENDORS

& ANTIQUE AUCTION, Union City (Randolph), downtown.

Over 60 plus vendors of antique, collectables and crafts. “Antiques Only.” 9 am-4 pm. Auction with estate sale begins at 10 am. Free. ucchamber47390@gmail.com.

SOUTHWEST

6-8

51ST ANNUAL DALE FALL FEST, Dale (Spencer), Dale town park.

Queen contest, food, bands, beer garden, rides, barbeque contest, bingo, and raffle.

Saturday afternoon parade. Free. 812-630-9465. facebook.com/dalefallfest

22

3RD ANNUAL FARM TO TABLE DINNER, Tell City (Perry), 700th Block of 9th Street.. In addition to the dinner, there will be a farmer’s market, petting zoo, chalk art contest, tractor rides throughout downtown, food booths, and a wine and beer garden! After the dinner and other activities, there will be live music in City Hall. Tickets for the dinner can be purchased at the Perry County Development Corporation.

1-9 pm. Cost varies. 812-547-8377. erin@pickperry.com. pickperry.com

2930

POSEYVILLE AUTUMN FEST, Poseyville (Posey), Poseyville Community Center. Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast fundraiser on Saturday morning. Enjoy activities, contests, food and music. Parade on Main Street Sunday at 3 pm. 812-431-6596. ocdmom@tds.net. poseyvillekiwanis.org.

30

SEPTEMBER 2018

2829

OLD ECKERTY DAYS, Eckerty (Crawford), Main Street. Come celebrate the 20th festival with all kinds of fun! Food, live music, retail booths, contests, talent show, raffles, pageants, and our parade. Handicapped parking and shuttle services available.

Free. Friday, 5-10 pm. Saturday, 10 am-10 pm. 812-338-2041. aaronlkelly@hotmail.com. facebook.com/ oldeckertyday.

SEPTEMBER NORTHEAST

6-9

ROANN COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL, Roann (Wabash), downtown. Family friendly, free concerts, games, carnival rides, food, hot-rod and farm tractor pulls, car/truck cruise-in. Cornhole contest in Covered Bridge. Trolly 85 rides to Stockdale Mill. Mud volleyball and more! No pets or alcohol. Free. 765-8332136. roanncoveredbridgefestival.com

1316

NAPPANEE APPLE FESTIVAL, Nappanee (Elkhart), downtown and various locations. Largest sevenfoot apple pie, Napple Store with everything apple, craft and commercial vendors, food booths, entertainment, carnival rides, exhibits, contests, antique farm. Free. 574-773-7812. nappaneeapplefestival.org

2223

JAY COUNTY HERITAGE DAYS, Portland (Jay), Historical Museum.

Demonstrations, reenactors, entertainment, exhibits, crafts, artisans, music, history, kids’ area, old-time games, kettlecooked food. Free. 260-726-7168. jaycountyhistory.org

SOUTHEAST

8

22

SUMC COMMUNITY ART FESTIVAL AND CRAFT FAIR 2018, Scottsburg (Scott), Scottsburg United Methodist Church. Local area artists and craft vendors offering their crafts for sale. Food, entertainment, crafts, works of art, handmade jewelry, woodworking, quilters, children’s crafts during festival, indoor restrooms, playground and lots of fun for everyone! 9 am-2 pm. Free. 812-7523545. kldodds1602@gmail.com. sumc.live ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL AND CORN MAZE, Lanesville (Harrison), Farm Life Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch. Great food, historic animal farm, pumpkins, hayrides, slides, kids’ train, and lots of attractions.

Saturday, 11 am-7:30 pm. Sunday, noon-6 pm. Event runs through Oct. 28. jim@farmlife.fun. farmlife.fun

28

ANNUAL QUILT/CRAFT SHOW, Edwardsville (Floyd), Edwardsville United Methodist Church. Annual quilt show with quilts and crafts for sale. Shop early for best selection.

Homemade soup and pies will be served. Friday 9 am-7 pm. Saturday, 9 am-4 pm. $1 admission. 812-9452939. eumc@edwardsvilleumc.org

This calendar is published as a service to readers and the communities electric cooperatives serve.

Electric Consumer publishes events free of charge as space allows, giving preference to free community festival and events in and around areas served by subscribing REMCs/RECs. While Electric Consumer strives for accuracy, please note that events, dates and time may change without notice. Electric Consumer advises using contact phone numbers or internet sites to check times and dates of events before making plans.

To add events to Calendar, please use the “Submit and Event” form under the “Talk to Us” or “Calendar” buttons at electricconsumer.org; or mail your info to: Calendar, Electric Consumer, P.O. Box 24517, Indianapolis, IN 46224. Please submit info two months before the date of the event.

SEPTEMBER 2018

31

upgrade

do-it-yourself

your outdated bathroom

by JEREMY & TINA BURGI

BRIGHTEN UP Continue the lightening

COSMETICALLY SPEAKING While

effect by replacing outdated light fixtures,

fixing or replacing functional items like

Oh, the bathroom. The room with so many

and choose brighter LED bulbs, too. Not only

faucets makes good sense, so does a little

will it liven up the look, but it will give you

beautifying. That could include putting a new

a clean, more modern feel that you’ll love,

bead of caulk around your tub to replace a

and so will future prospective buyers. You’ll

dirty or moldy one. Grout repair products

be pleasantly surprised what a difference a

make old grout look brand new. Or hide

new light fixture makes in your bathroom.

counter clutter by installing a new medicine

Just remember to turn off the power at the

cabinet and mirror. Attractive shelving keeps

breaker box before working with any wiring

towels and beauty supplies tidy. Change out

project.

an old or non-functioning bath exhaust fan

moving parts, taking care of our most basic needs. The room that seems to get dirty five minutes after you’ve cleaned it, and the room that can quickly show wear and tear. If you take a moment to look at your bathroom with an objective eye, you may notice how outdated it’s become. There are some simple DIY upgrades that will take your bathroom from drab to dynamite. Best of all,

with a quieter, more powerful one. Keeping

they’ll add value without busting the budget.

HARDWARE HELP Another quick way

all that steam at bay will help keep your new

to change the look and feel of your bathroom

paint and hardware streak and rust free!

LIGHTEN UP A fresh coat of paint does

is with new hardware. That could include

wonders in the bathroom, especially when you’re replacing a darker color with a lighter one. After closets, your bathroom is probably the smallest room in the house. Paint is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to transform the space. When you lack square footage, a lighter shade of paint expands the feel of the room instantly.

Make sure to choose paint better suited to withstand humid conditions and repel mildew, such as a semi-gloss. And while you’re sprucing up the walls, don’t forget about the ceilings. Scrape down any dusty, steam-trapping popcorn texture and then prime and paint.

32

SEPTEMBER 2018

updated towel bars, hooks, and shower

Visit your local Do it Best store or

curtain rings and rods. Heck, you may as

doitbest.com for thousands of the best

well throw in a new curtain while you’re at

home improvement products, including

it. If you have an older vanity that you don’t

paint, fixtures, and hardware for all your

want to replace, just changing the door pulls

bathroom DIY projects.

and hinges can make a big difference. And finishes to choose from. New hardware is an

JEREMY & TINA BURGI operate

easy way to show off your stylish flair!

Schlemmer Hardware

believe us, there is no shortage of styles and

Do it Center® in

FAUCET FANTASTIC An old faucet can really date a bathroom. Fortunately, replacing it with a modern one only takes a couple of hours. Just like the hardware, faucets come in so many styles and finishes, you may spend more time picking one out than actually replacing it. That’s because most new faucets come as an ensemble with all the components you need, including the drain collar and sink stopper. You’ll be splashing water all over the counter again in no time.

LaGrange. They are member-owners of Do it Best Corp., a Fort Wayne-based cooperative of thousands of hardware stores, home centers and lumberyards throughout the U.S. and around the world.

(This article is for informational purposes only. Electric Consumer and Do it Best assume no liability for the accuracy or completeness of its content, or for injuries, property damage, or the outcome of any project.)

safety IN YOUR HOME

KNOWING THE LINGO When you call an electrician to assist you with a problem, it’s helpful to know the lingo. Here are a few electrical terms to know: Electrical Service Panel: Distributes electricity to switches, outlets and appliances. This is where you can restore the flow to an overloaded circuit or shut

Understanding your

HOME’S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

down the power to the circuit.

Fuse: Safety devices used to protect individual circuits that were installed in homes before 1965. Every time a fuse is blown

Many move into a new home without understanding the electrical system that makes all the electronics work. Would you know how to trip the main circuit if someone was being shocked in the bathroom?

ning. The service panel sends electricity to the light switches, outlets and appliances. If your electricity short circuits or an overload shuts down power, your service panel is where you will go to restore the flow.

it must be replaced.

“Understanding how your home’s electrical system functions is important not only to keep it properly maintained, but for your safety if a problem arises,” said Tom VanParis, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives.

Depending on the age of your home, either fuses or circuit breakers help protect your home’s electrical system from overloading thus preventing an electrical fire. The main breaker will cut all power to the home, and the individual circuit breakers administer power to individual parts of the home. If you look in your service panel, all of the circuits and what they power should be labeled. A couple times a year, try turning each breaker on and off. This helps familiarize you with each component of the box and keeps them from getting stuck.

newer homes. When a circuit

Your electric cooperative handles the line portion of your service, which includes everything up to the attachment point on your house. Everything beyond that point is called the “load side,” and everything on the load side is your responsibility.

Your electric cooperative connects the outdoor wires to the meter mounted on the outside of your home. The meter measures the amount of electricity your home uses and determines your bill each month. Tampering with this meter is both extremely dangerous and illegal.

You’ll find your electrical service panel inside your home. It keeps everything run-

You are responsible for making sure no circuits are overloaded. A general rule when setting up your breakers is to have only one big ticket item on a circuit.

Once you understand the basic workings of your home’s electrical system, you will be able to jump into action if a problem arises.

Circuit Breakers: Safety devices used to protect individual circuits that are now used in all is “tripped,” it just has to be mechanically reset to resume operating.

Arc Fault: A dangerous electrical problem caused by damaged, overheated or stressed electrical wiring or devices.

Grounding: The method used to connect an electrical system to the earth with a wire.

Grounding will help protect the person working on the system, the system itself, and any appliances and equipment that are connected to the system.

JU L Y 2 018

33

DO YOU OR A LOVED ONE STRUGGLE ON THE STAIRS?

backyard

AskRosie Mystery Plants and Bumper Crops

A: Hawaiian portulaca is a small succulent shrub where it is native, but it is not hardy enough for Indiana winters. In fact, it can’t tolerate much below freezing. If you move it outside in the summer, you’ll need to bring it indoors before autumn frost.

As an indoor plant, it will thrive best in a sunny window in well-drained succulent potting mix. It should be watered sparingly.

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Above: Hawaiian portulaca is a tropical succulent not hardy in Indiana.

Q: I sent in a mystery plant question that was featured in your column in the July 2017 issue. The plant was not doing well then but has finally begun flourishing. I have identified it to be a portulaca molokiniensis.

I have found various sites that all give different descriptions on how to care for it. Do you know the best way to care for this plant species?— R.E., Columbus

Q: We have a bumper crop of maple tree sprouts in our landscaping.

How can we prevent the sprouts next year? Besides pulling them, is there any way to deal with them this year? — R.A.K. A: Unfortunately, not much can be done in the home landscape to prevent them.

However, if you get after the sprouts while they are young, you can keep them under control.

Although tedious, hand digging, repeated cutting or targeted application of a translocating herbicide, such as glyphosate, can be used. If you use the glyphosate, apply to actively growing seedlings and make sure you do not get any of the herbicide on your desirable plants.

Always read and follow label directions when using pesticide.

Rating

B. ROSIE LERNER is the Purdue Extension consumer horticulturist and is a consumer of Tipmont REMC. Questions about gardening issues may be sent directly to *Not valid on previous purchases. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Not valid on refurbished models. Only valid towards purchase of a NEW Acorn Stairlift directly from the manufacturer. $250 discount will be applied to new orders. Please mention this ad when calling. AZ ROC 278722, CA 942619, MN LC670698, OK 50110, OR CCB 198506, RI 88, WA ACORNSI894OB, WV WV049654, MA HIC169936, NJ 13VH07752300, PA PA101967, CT ELV 0425003-R5.

34

SEPTEMBER 2018

Rosie at homehort@purdue.edu; mailed to “Ask Rosie,” Electric Consumer, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606; or through our “Talk to Us” form online at ElectricConsumer.org.

ADVERTISEMENT

New Pill Targets Weak Bladder Muscles, Preventing Accidents and Leaks Developed for 24-hour bladder control; participants in clinical trial experience dramatic reduction in trips to the bathroom, embarrassing leaking, and nighttime urgency without the usual negative side effects of drugs.

Robert Ward, Associated Health Press AHP− Adult diaper sales are expected to plummet as results from a clinical trial on a new, patented bladder control pill have finally been released.

Sold under the brand name UriVarx™, the new pill contains key ingredients that keeps the bladder from releasing voluntarily, which reduces accidents and frequent bathroom trips.

Perhaps more impressive, it also targets the tiny muscles around the bladder, which helps the bladder to create a tighter seal.

This would explain why the average UriVarx™ user in clinical trials experiences a 66% reduction in urinary incontinence symptoms, such as day and night leaking and sudden urges to urinate.

NEW DISCOVERY IN BLADDER CONTROL Until now, doctors believed it was impossible to strengthen the muscles that control the bladder. They are amazed to see that it can now be done with the non-prescription UriVarx™ pill.

“As you get older, and the involuntary muscles around your bladder weaken, you lose urinary control. With your bladder wall unable to properly seal, you constantly leak and feel pressure to urinate” explains Dr. Bassam Damaj of Innovus Pharmaceuticals.

“UriVarx™ targets the bladder muscles and help restores vital kidney health, reducing urgency and frequency. It also helps you “hold it” for hours so you never have to worry about embarrassing accidents ever again!”

FREEDOM FROM SUDDEN URGES AND LEAKS Since hitting the market, sales for the patented UriVarx™ pill have soared and there are some very good reasons why.

To begin with, the double blind large clinical studies published in the clinicaltrials.gov have been impressive. Participants taking UriVarx™ saw a stunning reduction in urinary frequency, which resulted in fewer bathroom trips both day and night.

They also experienced a dramatic decrease in incontinence episodes, such as leaking and bed wetting.

The active ingredients in UriVarx™ comes from a patented formula. It is both safe and healthy. There are also no known serious side effects in its history of use.

Scientists believe that the ingredients target the muscles of the bladder to grow stronger. These muscles are responsible for keeping the bladder tightly sealed. They also help the bladder to

completely empty, allowing bacteria to be flushed from the urinary tract.

Research has shown that as you get older, certain hormonal changes in the body cause these muscles to shrink and become lose. This is what causes the bladder to be over active and the resulting urine accidents and why UriVarx™ seems to be so effective in the published clinical trials.

EXCITING RESULTS FROM URIVARX USERS Many UriVarx™ users say their bladders have never been stronger. For the first time in years, they are confident and in complete control. Adult pads and diapers are no longer a big worry.

“After my third child, I couldn’t control my bladder. I was running to the bathroom all the time!

And once I hit my 60s it became so unpredictable I needed to wear adult pads every day” explained Marie L. of Danbury, CT. “I was embarrassed so before going to my doctor I decided to try UriVarx and I’m so glad I did! The urgency is gone and I no longer feel like my bladder is about to explode. I can also “hold it” when I need to so I’m no longer living in constant fear of finding a bathroom.”

IMPRESSIVE CLINICAL RESULTS The exciting clinical results published on the government clinical website clinicaltrials.gov show that UriVarx™ can strengthen your bladder fast, significantly reducing the urine urgency and leaks.

In a new double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 142 men and women with bladder control issues were separated into two groups. The first group was given a placebo while the other received UriVarx™.

The results were incredible. The participants who received UriVarx™ saw major improvements in leaking, pressure, and the urgency to go − all without the usual side effects seen in prescription drugs!

They also reported fewer trips to the bathroom both day and night.

Overall, the UriVarx™ group experienced: • 56% Reduction in Urge Incontinence • 66% Reduction in Stress Incontinence • 61% Reduction in Urgency • 33% Reduction in Frequency • 46% Reduction in Nighttime Bathroom Trips Additionally, at the end of clinical trial and after seeing the results, 84% of the participants taking UriVarx™ said it significantly improved their quality of life.

“The clinical findings are incredible, but people still wonder if it will really work” explains Dr. Bassam Damaj. “It’s normal to be skeptical, but we’ve seen thousands of UriVarx™ users get results

Urivarx: This new patented, clinically proven pill solution is now available nationwide exactly like the participants in the study. It’s an amazing product.”

HOW IT WORKS UriVarx™ is a pill that’s taken just once daily. It does not require a prescription.

The active ingredients are patented natural extracts.

Research shows that as we get older, the muscles which surround the bladder weaken. This is caused by hormonal changes in the body that causes the muscles to atrophy and weaken.

When they become too small and weak, they cannot seal your bladder shut, which causes leaking, accidents, among other incontinence symptoms.

It also prevents your bladder from fully emptying, which can result in persistent bacterial infections and UTIs. UriVarx™’s active ingredient targets the muscles around the bladder, making them stronger.

Supporting ingredients in UriVarx™ support kidney function and overall urinary health.

BLADDER PROBLEMS GONE With daily use, UriVarx™ can restore strong bladder control and help users overcome leakage without the negative side effects or interactions associated with drugs.

Leakage sufferers can now put an end to the uncontrollable urges, the embarrassing accidents, and enjoy an entirely new level of comfort and confidence.

HOW TO GET URIVARX™ This is the first official public release of UriVarx™.

In order to get the word out about UriVarx™ the manufacturer, Innovus Pharmaceuticals, is offering special introductory discounts while supplies last.

A special phone hotline has been set up to take advantage of deep discounts during this ordering opportunity. The discounts will automatically be applied to all callers.

Your Toll-Free Hotline number is 1-800-506-8220 and will only be open while supplies last. Don’t miss out, call today.

THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FDA. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. RESULTS MAY VARY. OFFER NOT AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS OF IOWA.

Wabash Valley Power news

Find (and seal) the hidden treasures in your home to save money There might’ve been a time when you came across an antique or

Check out some of the common areas that are worth exploring.

old item in your attic or basement that you could sell for money.

You also can contact your local electric cooperative to get more

Yet did you know that there could very easily be some additional

information about a home energy assessment, which likely will

treasures in the form of air leaks – and finding (and sealing) them

include a blower door test. The assessment will show you ways you

could lead to energy savings!

can address your house to avoid energy waste, saving you money.

COMMON AIR LEAK SOURCES

Plumbing Stack Gaps around the plumbing stacks and framing can let air escape, causing your HVAC system to work harder than it should.

Ductwork Disconnected ductwork can lead to significant amounts of air escaping. Check to make sure ducts are properly sealed and fastened, including at vents and registers.

Chimney Air leaks can exist in the attic around the chimney. Be sure to safely air seal the gaps to avoid air from escaping.

Bulkhead An improperly sealed bulkhead can lead to significant heat waste.

Water Lines / Gas Lines / Dryer Vent Any connection going through the foundation wall in either a crawlspace or basement needs to be properly sealed to prevent air infiltrating.

36

SEPTEMBER 2018

reader submissions

Photographs & memories Though they may be faded and perhaps torn, old photographs instantly transport you to days gone by, when loved ones were near, life was simpler — and you actually had to wait for film to be processed!

BELOW: Six-month-old Marcia Ugoletti forgoes a tricycle and goes straight for the motorcycle.

“I’m sure Mom or Dad was behind me,” she said of her inaugural perch on the two-wheeler.

BELOW: Beth Richards shared a circa 1910-1920 photo of her grandfather, James L. “Gramps” Shauver who was born in 1888.

“When I have shown this picture to some people, they usually think it is my son, Josh Richards,” she said.

ABOVE: Patricia Daugherty’s family photo dates back to 1955, when she was just over one year old. She’s being held by her great grandfather. Also pictured are her paternal grandparents and her mother.

LEFT: Remember when a carwash was done at home with a water hose, a bucket of soapy water and a sponge? Judy McMillin sent us a photo of her at age 8 (atop the car) helping her 22-year-old sister wash her 1949 Chevy.

SEPTEMBER 2018

37

profile

FRIDAY NIGHT Lights

Football was fleeting for Heritage Hills fullback, but its lasting lessons are passed on

BY RICHARD G. BIEVER The Friday night air everywhere this time of year carries the whistles and cheers of another football season kicking off. For every player along the sidelines whose dream of making it big in the NFL comes true, there are thousands and thousands whose dreams will remain behind on the high school or collegiate gridiron.

Then there are players like Jon Goldsberry.

A standout at Heritage Hills High School in Spencer County and a member of Purdue University Boilermaker teams that went to bowl games every year he was there, Goldsberry came ohhhh-so-close to fulfilling an NFL dream.

While he played in preseason games and suited up for the Buffalo Bills in 2005 and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2006, the six-footone-inch, 246-pound fullback never left the sidelines, never played a down, in a regular season game. In 2007, he signed with his

third team, the Chicago Bears practice squad, but as injuries began taking a toll, he was released before the season began.

What an athlete does when no one is watching or making them do it, is what will make the biggest

Statistically, his career may have been for naught, but on life’s higher playing field, Goldsberry sees a greater silver lining. “I do believe that everyone has their role in life, and God has a plan for everyone. That happened to be my role during that time in my life, and I did my best with no regrets.

Unfortunately, due to several injuries and surgeries, I simply wasn’t good enough to start in the NFL, and I am OK with that. After being with three teams in three years and constantly scratching and clawing to make a team, I knew my time was limited from the beginning.”

difference in the long run.

Goldsberry, now 36, came back to southern Indiana. He is now a sales rep at Mulzer Crushed Stone in Tell City. His wife, Rachael, is the manager of member services at Southern Indiana Power.

And just as his dad, a coach at Heritage Hills, passed the love of the game to him, Goldsberry is now passing that love of the game and its life lessons on to his own two children — son Jett, age 10, and daughter Gianna “Gigi,” age 7 — and other youth in the north Spencer area.

Coincidentally, like his late father who once played college football with Phil Simms who went on to star in the NFL with the New York Giants, Goldsberry also played with quarterbacks Drew Brees at Purdue and Jay Cutler at Heritage Hills who also went on to star in the NFL. Jon Goldsberry of Santa Claus played for Purdue University from 2001 to 2004. He split his time in fullback, special teams and linebacker positions.

PHOTO BY TOM CAMPBELL

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SEPTEMBER 2018

“

“When you love anything as much as I love football, of course it can be frustrating to watch rather than play,” Goldsberry said.

“I have often told people I would have all of my surgeries over again tonight if it meant I could play again tomorrow.”

“There are so many things I carry over to kids from my playing years,” Goldsberry said, “but the one thing I continue to relay from the late [Purdue Head Coach] Joe Tiller, is this: ‘Do what you’re supposed to do, when you’re supposed to do it, the way it’s supposed to be done, and do it that way every time.’”

”

JON GOLDSBERRY Goldsberry is coaching in his son’s fifth and sixth grade tackle football program at the North Spencer School Corporation. In the past, he has also held summer camps at Heritage Hills where some of his former Purdue and NFL teammates assisted.

“There are a lot of BIG dreams out there in youth athletics today,” he said. “I would love to see them all play professionally and live out those dreams. Unfortunately, there aren’t as many athletes who will focus on the little things that will make the biggest difference.

What an athlete does when no one is watching or making them do it, is what will make the biggest difference in the long run.”

While playing on Sundays before crowds of 60,000 may be an ultimate dream for many of those players suiting up for the season this month, here’s a bit of advice most all former high school athletes would impart to today’s high school players — and, really, for all youth: Cherish these days — now. Make memories, now. Youth is fleeting.

“Those days were fun,” recalled Goldsberry.

“Football was still just a game at that point.

Although I loved to play at each level, nothing compares to high school football and the camaraderie that comes along with playing on Friday nights.”

Richard G. Biever is senior editor of Electric Consumer.