Henry County REMC — September 2021 Indiana Connection

Introducing new CEO Melissa True.

Henry County REMC’s

REMEMBER THAT

September R E A D E R S R E F L E C T O N T R AG I C DAY

PAGES

18–21

SEPTEMBER 2021

SHELF LIFE

from the editor

After 23 years living in the same house, it’s definitely time for a major decorating refresh.

So, I’ve been scouring home décor magazines for months now, seeking inspiration on how to update the mid-‘90s style that we’ve surrounded ourselves with all these years into something more on trend.

Kitchens and bathrooms seem to top most homeowners’ renovation to-do lists.

I totally understand why. When comparing the dark wood cabinets and black appliances in my kitchen with the lighter cabinetry and farmhouse décor in so many homes nowadays, the passage of time and trends is crystal clear.

I know many DIY’ers freshen their cabinets by replacing the doors or painting them in one of numerous shades of white but, according to the decorating magazines, to really update your kitchen’s appeal, open shelving seems to be the way to go. I love the look of neatly stacked matching plates, soup bowls and mixing bowls nesting within each other next to them, and rows of sparkling glasses out in the open for all to see.

But as much as I covet this popular trend, I know I’d never be able to pull it off.

For one thing, I’d have to buy a whole new set of dishes and glassware fit to be a kitchen focal point. Plus, the stress of having more open surfaces to dust (as if I dust regularly as it is!) is negating the tranquil effect the open concept is supposed inspire.

So, maybe I need to ditch the decorating trends and create a totally original look — one that won’t be subject to the whims of design gurus who will never know what works for me. And 10 years from now, when the shelf life of open shelves is over, I won’t have to dismantle them to put some cabinets back up. I guess it’s time to pick up some paint and keep what’s behind closed doors right where they are. Who knows — my as-yet undiscovered kitchen makeover may be a home style hit!

EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@indianaec.org Editor’s comment: I received several comments about my July column and the fact that I did not specify I would be recycling my preponderance of old magazines. To clarify, everything was donated to various resale shops so others will hopefully be able to enjoy reliving the “good old days” through the magazines.

On the menu: December issue: Chocolate, deadline Oct. 1.

January issue: Sheet pan meals, deadline Oct. 1. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Giveaways: We have two prize opportunities this month. Kankakee Valley REMC is

providing a $50 gift card to Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille in Valparaiso. Plus, we have a prize package from Ripley County Tourism (value $150). For details and to enter, visit indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests. Entry deadline: Sept. 30.

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

and entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website indianaconnection.org; email info@indianaconnection.org; or send to Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606.

VOLUME 71 • NUMBER 3 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by Indiana Electric Cooperatives Indiana Connection is for and about members of Indiana’s locally-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives. It helps consumers use electricity safely and efficiently; understand energy issues; connect with their co-op; and celebrate life in Indiana. Over 304,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership.

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

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

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

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

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

Include key number.

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

SEPTEMBER 2021

3

contents

SEPTEMBER

14

16

energy

03 FROM THE EDITOR 05 CO-OP NEWS Energy news and information from your electric cooperative.

12 INSIGHTS 14 ENERGY How the cost of energy remains stable.

26

food

27

pets

travel

15 INDIANA EATS

22 COUNTY OF THE MONTH

27 TRAVEL

Industrial Revolution salutes nation’s greatness while serving great food.

Spotlighting Ripley County.

Shades State Park.

(Not in all editions)

16 FOOD Pick of the chick.

24 SAFETY Take care when charging your electric vehicle.

18 COVER STORY Remember that September: Readers reflect on 9/11.

23 CALENDAR

25 RECALLS

28 DIY Wallpapering to create an accent wall.

30 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS

26 PETS Don’t ignore your pet’s dental health. (Not in all editions)

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Indiana Connection

On the cover Twenty years after 9/11, not only is the New York City skyline forever altered — so are those who remember that tragic day. And though the 9/11 Memorial, shown on the cover, is a magnet for those wanting to reflect on what happened, our readers simply took pen to paper or fingertips to keyboard to share their stories of where they were when the world changed.

4

SEPTEMBER 2021

co-op news

HCREMC ANNOUNCES NEW CEO www.hcremc.com CONTACT US 800-248-8413 Fax: 765-529-1667 OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday STREET ADDRESS 3400 S. State Road 3 New Castle, IN 47362 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box D New Castle, IN 47362 A night deposit box is available 24 hours a day.

EMAIL hcremc@hcremc.com SERVICE INTERRUPTIONS To report a power outage, please call 800-248-8413, day or night.

MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Henry County REMC is to provide reliable, safe and cost-competitive electrical service to enhance the lives of our members and the communities we serve.

BILL DUE DATES Bills mailed Sept. 9 are due Sept. 26.

Bills mailed Sept. 15 are due Oct. 3.

Bills mailed Sept. 30 are due Oct. 17.y.

Know what’s below.

Call 811 before you dig!

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ HenryCountyREMC FOLLOW US ON TWITTER www.twitter.com/ HenryCountyREMC

On July 30, the HCREMC board announced its selection of Melissa True as the new CEO of HCREMC. True has served the members of HCREMC for the past 15 years, most recently as manager of customer service and billing.

Over her time at REMC, she obtained a bachelor’s degree in business management from Indiana Wesleyan and is currently pursuing a master’s degree from Purdue Global.

Her experience at the cooperative includes finance, billing, customer service and management.

MELISSA TRUE

A leader in our community, True is a member of the New Castle Noon Optimist Club and currently serves as treasurer of the New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce. She has donated time to other non-profit organizations.

We congratulate True on her recent promotion. Her insight into the community, and her experience and education are tremendous assets for the member-consumers of HCREMC.

JOIN US ON OCT. 8 85TH HCREMC MEMBERSHIP ANNUAL MEETING Last year brought HCREMC significant challenges regarding our annual meeting.

In fact, we faced so many challenges that we determined the best, and safest, course of action was to host a Facebook LIVE event. The event lasted approximately 15 minutes and was made available on our Facebook, YouTube and website.

Although this was not our preferred way to announce director election results or update members on electric cooperative business, we were thankful to be able to communicate with our member-consumers.

Facebook LIVE allowed us to have interaction with member-consumers; they could ask questions and make comments.

Your feedback is valuable. During these trying times, we continue to serve YOU, our member, and your input is important.

As we continue to navigate this unyielding pandemic, we plan to celebrate our 85th Annual Meeting by offering a drive-through event paired with a Facebook LIVE presentation on Oct. 8.

85th Celebration – Drive Through event: On Oct. 8 from 3 to 7 p.m., members are invited to visit the HCREMC facility to receive a special 85th anniversary gift from the cooperative.

Facebook LIVE Presentation: On Oct. 8 at 5 p.m., tune into Facebook to hear the results of the 2021 director election, watch directors be sworn into position, view prize drawings for eligible members and more.

Even though this event may look a little different than past festivities, we hope you will enjoy this safe, convenient opportunity to participate in your electric cooperative.

Please watch our social media channels, look for communications in your mailbox, visit our website and read alerts in our online account management system, SmartHub.

SEPTEMBER 2021

5

co-op news CEO ANNUAL REPORT

Recapping 2020-2021 and planning for the future SYSTEM RELIABILITY We strive to improve our operational efficiency to provide the most reliable electric service possible for our member-consumers (that’s you!).

In 2020, we improved reliability by continuing an aggressive approach to our vegetation management efforts. In addition, we continued our goals to convert overhead power lines to underground to some of the troublesome areas of our service territory. These items, along with many others, have already proven to reduce outages and outage restoration times.

As you can probably imagine, improvements take time and money, which is monitored by our board of directors who are member-consumers just like you. Being a non-profit electric cooperative, we work diligently to get the most out of our budget dollars. We will continue to monitor these efforts and implement strategies to improve reliability.

HIGH SPEED INTERNET Last year’s challenges brought increased member-consumer concern for high-speed internet. There are many underserved areas in our service territory.

In spring of 2020, we announced plans to partner with Watch Communications to provide wireless internet service to as many member-consumers as quickly as we could. Watch Communications installed wireless equipment to our existing communication towers near Middletown, Kennard, Mooreland,

Straughn and New Castle. Some member-consumers were able to take advantage of this opportunity, while other areas remain underserved due to terrain or distance from the communication towers.

Additionally, through a grant opportunity, we partnered with NineStar Connect to construct broadband fiber installations in the southwest part of Henry Township in the HCREMC service territory.

NineStar is managing the construction of this project. Once completed, it will open opportunities for reliable internet service to approximately 200 HCREMC member-consumers. More information to come on this.

STAYING CONNECTED TO HCREMC As part of our strategic plans, our website was recently redesigned to offer more user-friendly options to conduct business with HCREMC. Submitting forms, checking outages, managing your account has never been easier. If you haven’t done so already, please visit www.hcremc.com.

Social media is a great way to stay connected with your electric cooperative. We offer news, tips, messaging opportunities and more. It is important to stay on top of what is going on at your local REMC.

We will continue to look for ways to grow broadband opportunities for our members.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE I am excited about my new role as CEO of HCREMC. I look forward to leading the employees of this cooperative and serving the HCREMC membership. I plan to stay abreast of challenges we face and use those challenges to develop strategic plans of action. We will keep you up-to-date with information. We ask that you stay connected with us and be involved.

Communication is key; you are a member-owner as well as consumer of this electric cooperative. We are here to serve YOU; your feedback is important.

MELISSA TRUE CEO

2020

UNPLANNED OUTAGE HOURS BY CAUSE 43% Trees 26% Public 24% Transmission 5% Lightning and Wind 1% Animals 1% Unknown

6

SEPTEMBER 2021

DIRECTOR ELECTION The following individuals were nominated or currently serve on the REMC board. District 1, 4 and 8 were uncontested and win the election by acclamation.

DISTRICT 1 Brian Becker (Incumbent) NUMBER OF YEARS ON HCREMC BOARD: 20 HCREMC ACHIEVEMENTS: I

have completed my CCD and BLC training. I also have served as board secretary, treasurer and vice chairman, and I currently am board chairman.

ORGANIZATIONS: Sulphur Springs Christian Church, Sulphur Springs City Lodge #348, Co-Alliance co-op board, inactive member of Jefferson Township Volunteer Fire Department.

ADDITIONAL INFO: Serving on the HCREMC board has been a great experience for me to represent the members of District 1. I have always kept in mind the cost and reliability of electric service to our members. Safety for our employees and the members we serve is a high priority. It is an honor to represent you and be a voice for you serving on the board of HCREMC.

DISTRICT 4 Donald Cross (Incumbent) NUMBER OF YEARS ON HCREMC BOARD: 36 HCREMC ACHIEVEMENTS: Past

vice chairman and chairman of the HCREMC board.

ORGANIZATIONS: Buck Creek Church of the Brethren finance board.

ADDITIONAL INFO: In past years, the economy has had good years and not so good years. During the difficult times, the board and CEO tried to take a proactive appraoch and adopt policies and procedures to minimize the impact on the membership as a whole. In prior years, I served on the Hoosier Energy board and Indiana Electric Cooperatives board. The above experience, I feel, qualifies me to serve the members in District 4 on the HCREMC board.

DIRECTOR CANDIDATES DI S TRIC T 9 The following individuals are candidates for board district 9 in the 2021 director election.

Members in District 9 will receive their voting ballots in September. Members can vote by paper ballot or online. The election will open Sept. 10 and close Sept. 22. See a district map on page 8.

Sharri Kendall YEARS AS HCREMC MEMBER: 6 OCCUPATION: Property

manager for Herbert Properties LP. Currently in her 11th year, third term, as the trustee for Harrison Township. Kendall and her husband own a cleaning business, Kendall Cleaning. Provides commercial cleaning for over 13 years.

EDUCATION: Graduated from Connersville Senior High School and attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Been a diplomat for the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce. Vice president of the Fayette County Rifle and Pistol Club.

Currently volunteer with the Versiti Blood Drive and Indy Honor Flight. Has had the honor of interviewing veterans from our county on a local Channel 3 TV station called Hometown Salutes.

DIRECTOR GOALS: I will contribute and add value as a board member. I am very driven and love working with others. It will be a great opportunity for me, and I look forward to the challenges. I always try to follow C.P.R. — communication, patience and respect. I am looking forward to representing District 9 and working with everyone on the board and at HCREMC.

Curt Poore

DISTRICT 8

YEARS AS HCREMC MEMBER: 42 OCCUPATION: Retired

Jay D. Carr YEARS AS HCREMC MEMBER: 43 OCCUPATION: Carpenter

since 1978.

EDUCATION: Graduated

— I have owned my own business

from Tri Jr./Sr. High School in 1970 and from Nashville Auto Diesel College in 1972.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Member of Spiceland Friends Church. Past master of Spiceland Masonic Lodge and current member of New Castle Masonic Lodge. Member of New Castle Elks and served as an officer for several years at the local, district and state levels. Lifetime member of Tri High Alumni, corporate sponsor of Tri High Athletic Department. A supporter of 4-H and involved with several hands-on project at Tri High School ag department.

DIRECTOR GOALS: Having been a member for over 40 years, I am interested in the operations of the co-op. I want to learn more about it and do what I can to keep HCREMC a sound operation and a contributing business to Henry County for our patrons.

from CenterPoint Energy (42 years) — 20 years as field technician and apprenticeship coordinator and 22 years as field supervisor.

Subject matter expert for daily operations of the utility.

EDUCATION: Graduated from South Henry High School.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Habitat for Humanity, director of New Lisbon Fire Department, member of New Lisbon Christian Church.

DIRECTOR GOALS: To ensure the safe, reliable and efficient delivery of energy and telecommunications to members. Offering sound business leadership, good judgment, and proven decision-making skills to further the success of the co-op.

SEPTEMBER 2021

7

co-op news

8

SEPTEMBER 2021

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SEPTEMBER 2021

9

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insights

WHAT MAKES YOUR CHRISTMAS SPECIAL? Holiday movie marathons. Christmas Eve church services. Visits to Santa. “Ugly Christmas sweater” family portraits. Matching PJs on Christmas morning. Every family has its own traditions that make the most special holiday even more special.

Our December issue will feature our readers’ favorite holiday traditions. Let us know how you celebrate Christmas with your family and friends. We’d also love to see your photos from Christmases past that illustrate what you love the best about your seasonal celebrations.

Deadline to send us your stories and photos is Oct. 29. If we publish your submission, we’ll send you a check for $50. We’ll also send $50 to a randomly selected reader with a tradition to share. Our address: Indiana Connection, Holiday Traditions, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240. You can also submit your tradition to us online at www.indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests.

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

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

WE CLOSE LOANS IN 30 DAYS GUARANTEED! Local Loan Originators We Lend in 48 States Loan Program Variety Low and No Down Payment Competitive Rates JWeingart@ WaterstoneMortgage.com

12

SEPTEMBER 2021

DID YOU KNOW...

Seamless guttering is designed to match your home’s exact dimensions. They offer better protection from water damage, less maintenance, and arguably more curb appeal than standard, sectional gutters.

Get a quote today!

812-865-2979 • 812-277-5862

YOUTH POWER AND HOPE AWARD DEADLINE OCT. 1 Since 2009, Indiana’s electric cooperative have honored middle school students who are committed to helping others in their communities. This year’s deadline to enter the Youth Power and Hope Awards is Oct. 1.

Qualified candidates must be in grades 5-8. Up to five winners will each receive $500 and be featured in an upcoming issue of Indiana Connection. Award recipients will also be recognized at the Indiana Electric Cooperatives annual meeting, to be held in Indianapolis in December.

For an online application, visit www. indianaconnection.org/ youthpowerandhope.

Contact Holly Huffman at hhuffman@indianaec.org or 317-487-2254 if you have questions.

ADVERTISEMENT

energy

how the cost of electricity remains

stable

A

s we go grocery shopping or fill up at a gas station, we see first-hand how the cost of goods fluctuate.

Today, price changes are driven by factors beyond supply and demand. Cyber attacks can shut down systems as seen in the ransomware attacks on the Colonial Pipeline and meat processor JBS. Global supply chain shortages can halt manufacturing as seen in the computer chip shortage affecting the automotive

14

SEPTEMBER 2021

Cost of common household electric devices MICROWAVE

24¢ 2 hours of use

industry. When these issues happen, prices can increase for consumers like you.

Your electric co-op and its power provider — both based right here in Indiana —are committed to serving members like you. Co-ops understand the challenges Hoosiers face and we work to keep costs stable while improving the resiliency of the grid.

The electricity you use is generated and transmitted regionally.

It is monitored by an

DISHWASHER

REFRIGERATOR

26¢

$7.58

2 hours of use

Independent System Operator (ISO) which looks at energy demand and what generating resources will be needed every day. This process helps us manage energy demands.

The structures in place that monitor, protect and supply energy to your home are constantly reviewed by your co-op, energy supplier and the ISO. This level of analysis is one reason electric costs have not seen dramatic increases during the past three decades.

per month

Locally-owned operations and constant review of systems for security and safety, through the cooperative business model, are just a few reasons electric costs remain stable for members like you.

by

Larry Edwards

Supervisor of Engineering Services Clark County REMC

Indiana eats

ALL-AMERICAN EATERY Industrial Revolution salutes nation’s greatness while serving great food BY AMANDA STEEB Those who visit Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille in Valparaiso may come for their favorite all-American cuisine, but they leave with an appreciation for the hard-working men and women who revolutionized our country — including those who worked in the steel industry.

So, it’s so appropriate that the restaurant is located in northwest Indiana, home to some of the country’s largest steel mills.

“Saluting American Greatness” is the theme of this very patriotic restaurant where every entrée is served with a toothpick American flag. Throughout the eatery, exposed brick walls are adorned with iconic black and white photographs from the industrial age, and quotes from famous inventors painted on bricks.

Steel statues are just one element of the nostalgic décor of Industrial Revolution.

Eleven life-size statues perched atop the roof greet you before you enter the building. These statues recreate the famous 1932 photograph, “Lunchtime on a Skyscraper,” which depicts ironworkers taking a break during the construction of the Rockefeller Center in New York City.

Industrial Revolution’s menu offers traditional favorites like the piledhigh red, white and blue-chipped

Welded Nachos as a starter, followed by Chicken Fried Chicken, Legendary Meatloaf, or brick oven pizza.

Revolution’s Originals also include favorites like Elijah McCoy’s Chicken Pot Pie, Mom’s Famous Double Shift Pot Roast, Dedicated Hero Chicken, “Captain Jones” Fish Tacos and Pot Roast Mac and Cheese.

Industrial Revolution also offers a full-service bar featuring beers from local breweries.

With pot roast, blue cheese crumbles and pepperoncini atop it, the Opportunity Pizza is truly revolutionary.

A favorite attraction for diners is the surprise visit from a model PHO TO BY RO BI N PEDERSEN train during their meal. Children and adults alike wait with These life-size statues atop Industrial Revolution recreate the 1932 photograph, excitement for the train to pass through "Lunchtime on a Skyscraper." on a track suspended from the ceiling.

The train makes its way around the entire restaurant at various times.

ENTER TO WIN

Industrial Revolution is located along U.S. Highway 30, just steps from Valparaiso University.

Amanda Steeb is the director of marketing and communications at Kankakee Valley REMC, headquartered in Wanatah, Indiana.

a $50 gift card to Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille, courtesy of Kankakee Valley REMC. LEARN MORE ON PAGE 3.

INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION EATERY AND GRILL 1084 Linwood Ave. Valparaiso, Indiana industrialrevolutioneatry.com

Open every day but Tuesday

219-465-1801 SEPTEMBER 2021

15

food BOWTIE LEMON CHICKEN

Susie Kraning Peru, Indiana

4½ cups uncooked bowtie pasta ½ t. lemon pepper seasoning 1 (2 oz.) boneless chicken breast cut in 1-inch pieces 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 T. vegetable or olive oil 1 cup chicken broth 1 cup fresh or frozen peas, thawed ⅔ cup shredded carrots ¼ cup cream cheese, cubed 2 T. lemon juice ½ t. salt ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese Cook pasta according to package directions. Do not drain. Sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning on chicken. In a large skillet, stir fry chicken and garlic in oil until juices are clear. Remove chicken and keep warm. Add broth, peas, carrots, cream cheese and lemon juice to the skillet. Cook and stir until vegetables are cooked and cheese is melted. Drain pasta and add to the reserved chicken. Salt the pasta/chicken mixture, then add it to the vegetable mixture in the skillet.

Heat through. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Makes 3-4 servings.

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SEPTEMBER 2021

food

Pick of the Chick THESE CHICKEN RECIPES ARE GUARANTEED FAMILY-PLEASERS

MEXICAN CHICKEN SPAGHETTI Kayla Knepp Montgomery, Indiana ½ stick butter 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast ½ medium onion, chopped ½ bell pepper, chopped ½ lb. spaghetti 1 (10 oz.) can mild diced tomatoes and green chiles (regular or hot) 1 (10 ¾ oz.) can cream of chicken soup

½ lb. pasteurized processed cheese (regular or Mexican) Salt and pepper to taste In a large frying pan, melt the butter. Cut the chicken into bite size pieces and saute in the butter.

When no longer pink inside add the chopped onions and chopped bell pepper and cook about 2 minutes.

Boil spaghetti in a large pan of water. Cook according to the package. Drain the pasta after cooked and discard the water. Do not rinse. Set cooked pasta aside.

Add the tomatoes, soup, and spaghetti to the sautéed chicken, onion and green pepper mixture and gently fold.

Add the cheese and stir together, mixing well. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Heat until cheese is thoroughly melted. Makes 4 servings.

Cook’s Note: I like to use half regular and half Mexican cheese.

I’ve made this adding a can of cream of mushroom soup as well as the cream of chicken. (Makes it creamier)

HONDURAN CHICKEN AND RICE Sharon Mullen Columbus, Indiana

3 T. canola oil ½ cup diced onion ½ cup diced green pepper 2 cups uncooked parboiled (converted) rice 4 cups water 1 cup cooked shredded chicken 1 chicken bouillon cube ½ t. garlic 2-4 t. curry powder or to taste 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables

In a saucepan or rice pan, add canola oil, onion and green pepper.

Sauté and then add rice and water; stir well. Add all other ingredients except frozen vegetables and stir well again.

Cook until rice is done. Add vegetables and cook till they are tender — just 2-3 minutes. Serve hot with cornbread or tortilla chips.

Makes 4 servings.

Cook’s Notes: Good way to use leftover shredded chicken or turkey.

FO O D PREPARED BY I NDI ANA CO NNECTI O N STA FF PHO TO S BY TAYLO R M ARAN I O N

SEPTEMBER 2021

17

REMEMBER THAT

September READERS REFLECT ON TRAGIC DAY

went into the western side

Readers whose

concerned. “Don’t worry

of the Pentagon outside

submissions we printed

Dad,” I assured him.

Washington, D.C. A fourth

received $50. One

“Lightning never strikes

hijacked plane, intended

randomly selected

the same place twice.”

eared into the

for the U.S. Capitol or the

submission was also

memories of most

White House, crashed

chosen for a $50 prize.

folks over the age of

near Shanksville in rural

That reader was Natalie

25 are where they were,

southern Pennsylvania.

Yanos of New Castle.

a consulting firm. At 7:45

what they were doing,

Passengers and crew on

and who they were with

that plane, alerted of the

Here’s a sampling of

begin my workday on the

as the unspeakable acts of

other hijackings by loved

three stories we found

57th floor. I was working

terror were carried out the

ones they had phoned,

compelling.

alone in an interior

morning of Sept. 11, 2001.

stormed the cockpit

S

and fought the hijackers

‘I AM ALIVE’

for control of the plane

the day the United

before it went down

It was Sept. 9, and I was

States was attacked by

just 20 minutes from

attending my nephew’s

Islamic terrorists who

Washington.

birthday party. Near the

commercial jets, loaded

For this solemn

with fuel, into missiles.

20th anniversary

They flew two into

commemoration, Indiana

the twin towers of the

Connection asked readers

World Trade Center in

to share their memories

New York City’s Lower

of that day. We received

Manhattan. A third jet

42 letters and emails.

18

SEPTEMBER 2021

1-year anniversary with a.m., I arrived at 1 WTC to

computer server room.

That is, of course,

turned three hijacked

Sept. 11, 2001, was my

end of the party, I told my father that I was flying to New York the next day for a week-long business trip.

I mentioned I was going to be in One World Trade Center, the one bombed in 1993. My father was

I turned on my laptop to begin loading software for my project and noticed through online messaging that two women from my Chicago office, Laura Murphy and Bridget Patowski, were working on the 59th floor.

At 8:46 a.m., there was a large “THUMP,” followed by a huge, drawn-out explosion. The floor in

The “Tribute in Light” — an annual installation of vertical searchlights — represents the Twin Towers that fell on 9/11.

The lights are installed at New York City’s Battery Park, six blocks south of One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

Across the street from the new tower, the 9/11 museum and memorial have been built in the footprints of the original Twin Towers.

here, look at this!” From

That was the first time

the World Trade Center

his window we could

I saw how badly some

Plaza.

see the dark smoke and

people were burned.

flaming debris above us.

Paper was raining down from the upper floors. At this point, I thought we had been hit by something a few floors above us. We all hustled quickly to the stairwell entrance, but there was no panic.

Once we were able

Around the 44th floor, the

to come out of the

smoke began to rise up in

underground mall, about

the stairwell. It was thick,

a block away, I was able

gray smoke, and I couldn’t

to turn around for the

even make out people

first time and see the

two floors below. People

Towers. The upper third

were not panicking at

of 1 WTC was rolling with

this point, but I could see

thick, black smoke. The

concern in some faces. I

upper half of 2 WTC was

When we got to the

knew I couldn’t continue

engulfed with thick, black

stairwell, it was already

down this stairwell with

smoke. Debris littered the

packed with people

all the smoke. I opened

ground.

coming down from the

the door on 44, which is

floors above. They were

a switchover for elevator

very calm and helpful to

banks. A security officer

others. Conversations in

asked, “Is that stairwell

the stairwell ranged from,

filling with smoke?” He

“What happened?” to “We

began hustling people

the room lifted me up and

were hit by a commercial

to another stairwell that

put me back down. The

jet plane.” How could we

was clear of smoke to the

rows of servers shook and

get hit by a commercial jet

bottom.

shuddered, the monitors

on such a clear, beautiful

went off, then immediately

day?

back on. Then, the building began to sway violently. I thought, “BOMB!” I was scared and thinking, “I am going to go down with this building.”

All I could think of was, “I need to get out of here.

Where is the closest stairwell?”

As I exited the server room, I could hear the metal beams creaking within the walls due to the stresses put on them from the swaying. I found four strangers in the hallway from the New York office.

From a corner office, an attorney yelled, “Come

I started to walk east, away from the Towers, toward my hotel. I was no more than a block from the WTC when I heard my name being called out.

I turned around and ran into Laura and Bridget, my two coworkers from the

After 35 to 40 minutes in

Chicago office who also

the stairwell, I reached

escaped. We grabbed

It was a very slow

the ground level. We were

each other and hugged,

process: going down a

hustled down an escalator

flight of concrete stairs,

and through a mall below

continued on page 20

waiting for more people to enter the stairwell, going down another flight, and then waiting for more people to enter the stairwell.

At 9:03 a.m., there was a muffled concussion, and the stairwell shook for a few seconds. People began screaming and crying. I thought the building was coming down on us. During the slow descent, the crowd above would yell, “Move right!

Injured coming down!”

YOUTH TOUR VISIT S MEMORIAL S Indiana Electric Cooperatives' Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., includes a visit to the 9/11 memorial at the Pentagon, above, and to the Flight 93 Memorial in Pennsylvania.

SEPTEMBER 2021

19

continued from page 19

and I told them we should

airplane hit the World

get back to my hotel to

Trade Center. When

make phone calls.

the second aircraft hit,

It took us five to 10 minutes to walk back to my hotel. When we made it there, we were inside no more than five minutes when the ground began to

Admiral Richard Mies said "That's no accident. We're under attack. Send out the messages to cancel the exercise, and let’s get into real-world operations."

shake. At first, we didn’t

We were on a telephone

know what caused the

conference the rest

shaking. From the TV in

of the day with Vice

the lobby of the hotel,

President Richard

we learned it was Tower

Cheney, Condoleezza

Two collapsing. The sky

Rice, Colin Powell, the

went light gray, gray, then

Joint Chiefs of Staff, the

black for at least a minute.

Secret Service, NSA,

Thirty minutes later, the

CIA, FAA, FBI, FEMA, Air

whole scenario would

Combat Command, Pacific

repeat itself as Tower One

Command, NORAD,

collapsed.

European Command,

We finally found public phones on the second floor of the hotel. I was conferenced in to my home from the Chicago office, and my wife, Jennifer, answered the phone. I said, “I am alive.

I am OK.” Then, I broke down in sobs.

DON BACSO, Monticello, Indiana

A FLY ON THE WALL I was at Headquarters, United States Strategic Command, serving as the reserve advisor to the commander. We were 40 feet below ground at the beginning of a worldwide exercise when the first

20

SEPTEMBER 2021

Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld and others. The operation was being orchestrated from the basement of

MARK A. PILLAR, M A J . G E N . (U S A F) , (R E T.)

PHO TO P RO V I DE D

BY M ARK A. P I LLAR

I was a fly on the wall on one of the most important days in our history. I saw and heard what our government and military was doing behind the scenes while there was

“I was a fly on the wall on one of the most important days in our history.”

so much chaos above ground. I watched men

out in the office … keep a

and women remain calm

log of who's left.”

and focused on their jobs of keeping Americans safe

How could I explain to

throughout the world.

9-year-old children the

would be polled for our

MARK A . PILL AR,

had brought us to this?

answers. Military and

Maj. Gen. (USAF), (Ret.)

And at that moment, we

civilian leadership was

Columbus, Indiana

did not even know the

the Pentagon. Questions would come up, and we

worst of it.

working very hard to defend the United States from whatever the next

THE MIGHTY SIX

attack would be.

I was in front of my class

Late that afternoon, President George W. Bush arrived in our command post. Admiral Mies briefed the president on what was on our situation video board. Later, they went into a Top Secret video conference with the leadership in Washington.

hatred and insanity that

of fourth graders when our principal came to the door and beckoned me into the hall. She was terribly upset, and her voice was shaking as she said “If any parents come to your classroom to pick up their children, just let them go.

No need to have them sign

Almost immediately parents were cramming the hallways, taking their children home. Once the pace slowed a bit, I was left with six students whose parents worked in Chicago and were not able to retrieve their children. These poor kids were so upset as they watched their friends leave with their moms

TIMELINE OF EVENTS ON and dads. I knew the

to our room wanting

parents of those six

to take my last two

children must have

brave little guys to

been frantic. I named

the office to wait for

my little group “The

their pickup, but I told

Mighty Six” and

her we were fine and

tried to assure them

we would just “wait

(and myself) that we

it out” together. They

would be just fine.

were finally rescued

We played charades,

by relatives around

had a checker

6 p.m., quite relieved

tournament, and

they did not have to

raided the cafeteria.

spend the night with

And, yes, we prayed.

Mrs. P.

I pulled up my list

That whole nonsense

of parent contact

about keeping prayer

numbers, and each

out of school … not

child called at least

on that day at Hickory

one of his or her

Bend Elementary.

parents from my cell

Those 9-year-olds

phone. I can still

(and their teacher)

see their confused,

were praying their

frightened faces

little hearts out. Their

while they waited

honesty, sincerity,

their turn. Four of the

and innocence

six were picked up by

melted my heart like

dismissal time.

butter.

An hour passed and

BARBAR A PEARSON,

the principal returned

Sept. 11, 2001

7: 5 9 a.m.

American Airlines Flight 11 takes off from Boston en route to Los Angeles.

8 :15

United Airlines Flight 175 takes off from Boston for

8 :1 9

Flight 11 crew members alert ground personnel to the flight’s hijacking.

8:20

American Airlines Flight 77 takes off from Washington Dulles International Airport.

8:42

United Airlines Flight 93 takes off late from Newark International Airport for San Francisco.

8:46

Flight 11 smashes into floors 93 through 99 of 1 World Trade Center (North Tower).

9:03

Flight 175 crashes into floors 77 through 85 of 2 World Trade Center (South Tower).

9:37

Flight 77 crashes into the west side of the Pentagon outside Washington, D.C.

9:42

The FAA orders all civilian planes in U.S. airspace to land immediately and prohibits departures.

9:59

The South WTC Tower collapses.

10:03

Flight 93 crashes into a field in southern Pennsylvania, 20 minutes from Washington.

10:28

The North WTC Tower collapses.

Wheatfield, Indiana

1 2 :1 6 p.m.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT SAALMAN

The name of Tell City native Stacey Peak is located on a panel at the World Trade Center memorial site in New York City. Peak was a stock broker on the 105th floor of the North Tower. She and eight others with direct ties to Indiana died in the attacks on 9/11.

The last commercial/general flight still in the air above the continental U.S. lands.

President George W. Bush was at an elementary school in Sarasota, Florida, that morning when informed of the events. At 9:54, Air Force One departs Sarasota and flies to Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana. At 2:50 p.m., the president lands at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska and spends the afternoon in the bunker at Strategic Command. He returns to the White House that evening. *Most of Indiana did not observe Daylight Saving Time in 2001 which would make the time listed an hour later than most of us might remember.

SEPTEMBER 2021

21

county feature

Ripley County Muzzleloaders and bumbershoots make Ripley County burst with the curious combo of clouds of black powder and showers of color this month.

The county, in the southeast pocket of the state, has long been known for hosting the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association in Friendship with its spring and fall competitions. The NMLRA was established in 1933 to preserve the history of muzzleloaders through shooting competitions and living history re-enactments and events. In addition, the NMLRA, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is devoted to providing high-quality educational instruction in the heritage arts associated with the sport of muzzleloading.

Each year, thousands of shooting and history enthusiasts flock to Friendship for the NMLRA’s major shoots in the community. During the events, competitors from around the world vie for national record scores shooting the historic muzzleloading guns. Archery and tomahawk and knife throwing competitions are also part of the events.

Coinciding with the NMLRA shoots, Friendship hosts Indiana’s most distinctive open-air flea market event. Vendors from around the country, but especially from the Indiana-Kentucky-Ohio tri-state, participate.

22

SEPTEMBER 2021

P H OTO B Y AM ANDA CO X, CO URTESY O F TH E R IP LE Y CO UNTY TO URI SM BUREAU

On site at Friendship, the NMLRA has The Museum of the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association as well as Gunmakers Hall, where the works of contemporary gunmakers are displayed. The Museum is located within the historic structure known as The John Linsey Rand House.

This month’s National Championship Shoot runs Sept.

11-19. The shoots are packed with a variety of matches, classes, programs, lectures and vendors each day.

Meanwhile, on up the Laughery and Little Laughery creeks from Friendship, the Umbrella Sky Project continues coloring in Batesville.

The project is an international exhibit, originally inspired by Mary Poppins, made from 464 umbrellas that appear to be floating magically in mid-air and bringing a shower of color. Umbrella Sky Batesville went up in late June and will continue to mid-October at the Village Green (East Boehringer and North Main streets).

The Umbrella Sky Project started in 2011 in Portugal, and since then,

County Facts FOUNDED: 1816 NAMED FOR: Gen. Eleazer Wheelock Ripley, an officer in the War of 1812 POPULATION: 28,521 (2018 estimate) COUNTY SEAT: Versailles INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 69

these pop-up shade structures have become an annual summertime installation and they have developed a cult following around the world. After Lisbon and Paris, the exhibit came to Pittsburgh, Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, and Dollywood in Tennessee. Indiana is only the fifth ENTER TO WIN U.S. location. a prize package from Ripley County Tourism (Value $150) See page 3.

For more information about the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association and its events, call: 812-667-5131 or 800-745-1493; or visit: www.nmlra.org For more information about Umbrella Sky Batesville, visit: www.baacindiana. org/umbrella-sky-project or find it on Facebook.

SEPT.

OCT.

Due to the ever-changing COVID-19 situation, please note that the events below may not occur at their originally scheduled times. Be sure to reach out to the event contacts below to ensure that the programs you are interested in are still taking place.

SEPT. 25-26: MADISON CHAUTAUQUA FESTIVAL OF ART, Madison (Jefferson), Madison to Vine streets. Southern Indiana’s premier outdoor juried arts and fine crafts festival. Variety of food vendors, live entertainment, and fun for kids. Free. 812-571-2752. madisonchautauqua.com OCT. 2-3: KENDALLVILLE APPLE FESTIVAL, Kendallville (Noble), Noble County Fairgrounds. Demonstrators, primitive village, children’s crafts and games, contests, antiques, crafts, foods, and entertainment. Parking charge. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday. 260-3501119. kendallvilleapplefestival.com OCT. 24-25: OLD ECKERTY DAYS, Eckerty (Crawford), Main Street. Live outdoor music, food booths, craft vendors, bounce houses, contests, and more. Entry fee for corn hole and cross cut contests. Parade on Saturday, 1:30 p.m. Free pumpkin painting Saturday. Hours: Friday, 5-10 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Free. 812-630-8915. facebook.com/ OldEckertyDays MORE EVENT LISTINGS AT INDIANACONNECTION.ORG/EVENTS SEPTEMBER 2021

23

safety

TAKE CARE WHEN CHARGING YOUR

ELECTRIC VEHICLE

D

o you recall all the safety rules you were taught about refueling

when you first learned to drive: Shut off the engine; don’t smoke; don’t leave the pump

your vehicle, though it is the slowest.

The level

Always use the charger provided by

2 electric

If you are among the growing number

the vehicle’s manufacturer. Before you

vehicle

of drivers sliding in behind the

plug into any electrical outlet, have a

equipment

wheel of an electric vehicle, different

qualified electrician inspect and verify

utilizes

“refueling” considerations apply.

the electrical system (outlet, wiring,

240 volts

junctions and protection devices) for

and 20 to

heavy duty service according to your

40 amps. These will recharge the car

vehicle’s owner’s manual.

more quickly. You will probably need

unattended; don’t overfill?

The most basic electrical safety lesson is that electricity and water don’t mix. However, EVs and their charging stations are designed to

Check the electrical outlet and plug

handle whatever Mother Nature

while charging and discontinue use if

throws your way, be it dust or rain. You

the electrical outlet or plug is hot, then

must remember, though, that there

have the electrical outlet serviced by a

are precautions to think about when

qualified electrician.

charging an EV whether you are in your garage or at a public charging station.

“You might not have to worry about spilling gasoline or setting off an explosion at the pump,” said John Gasstrom, CEO at Indiana Electric

In addition, when charging always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Some of the most common are: • Do not use extension cords,

240 service for an electric range, water heater or clothes dryer.

Before using a public charger, always inspect it first to make sure it doesn’t appear damaged. EV charging stations are designed so the cable remains de-energized until it’s connected to the port on the vehicle. Once connected, the

use anything electric, there are a few

is worn or damaged, or one that will

things to keep in mind.”

not hold the plug firmly in place.

• Do not use an electrical outlet

into your garage’s 120-volt/15-amp

that is on a circuit with other

outlet is the easiest way to charge

electrical loads.

SEPTEMBER 2021

and plug at your home, similar to the

protection strips or similar devices.

• Do not use an electrical outlet that

24

the charger and a separate service

multi-outlet power strips, surge

Cooperatives. “But, just as when you

Using a level 1 charger plugged

to have a qualified electrician install

vehicle starts communication with the device, conducting measurements to determine everything is safe and working properly, and only then will it begin the flow of energy.

product recalls Generators may overheat ECHO is recalling one of its generators due to fire and burn hazards.

Manufactured by TTI, affected units are those with the model number EGi-2300 and a serial number from EU19483D010001 through EU21021N010180. The model and serial number are printed on the data label on the bottom left hand of the side panel. The generators are orange and black with “ECHO” and “EGi-2300” printed on the side.

The generators were sold for about $850 at independent ECHO outdoor power equipment dealers nationwide and online at www.HomeDepot.com from February 2020 through June 2021.

Contact ECHO at 800-432-3246 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,Central Time, or 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, or online at www.

Echo-USA.com and click on “Support/Help,” then “Product Recall,” for more information. ECHO is also contacting all known purchasers directly.

Fire pits’ wood storage areas raise safety concerns Two wood-burning fire pits are being recalled due to a fire hazard.

The recall includes Arroyo (UPC 752370060107) and Hideaway (UPC 752370064501) Wood Burning Fire Pits sold at Crate and Barrel. Wood stored under these units can ignite, posing a fire hazard.

The fire pits were sold exclusively at Crate and Barrel stores nationwide and online at www. crateandbarel.com from December 2020 through May 2021 for about $700.

Contact Real Flame at 800-654-1704 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Central Time, or 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, or online at www.realflame.com and click “Support,” then “Product Recalls” for more information.

Pooh bear rattle recall Disney Baby Winnie the Pooh Rattle Sets are a potential choking hazard for young children.

The set includes three rattles and is marked for ages 3 months and above. The rattle, which has the character Winnie the Pooh as part of the toy, is blue and red with green and yellow shapes.

The set was sold at Walgreens Stores nationwide from September 2019 through January 2020 for about $10.

Contact Walgreens at 800-925-4733 — 24 hours a day, seven days a week — or online at www.walgreens.com. Type in “Recalls” in the Search bar for more information.

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

SEPTEMBER 2021

25

co-op news

INCOME STATEMENT Operating Revenue

2020 $24,025,600

Operating Expenses Purchased Power

14,865,997

Operations & Maintenance

2,592,799

Customer, Administrative & General

2,401,399

Depreciation

2,146,436

Taxes

538,020

Interest

770,362

Operating Margin

$710,587

Non-Operating Income

Balance Sheet Net Utility Plant

$42,243,958

Other Property and Investments

10,408,079

Deferred Debits

519,149

Cash

487,450

Accounts Receivable Materials and Supplies

Interest Income

2,089

Gain(loss) Disposal of Assets

(3,420)

Income from Investments in Associated Organizations

403,466

Amortization Recognized

4,795

Total Margins

$1,117,517

Operating Expenses

742,222 36,908 $56,851,799

Equities and Liabilities

Patronage Capital

$770,362

2,414,033

Prepaid Expenses and Other

Memberships

Interest

2020

Assets

Other Equities

$188,893 28,530,389 2,651,593

Taxes

$538,020 Depreciation

$2,146,436

Long Term Debt

21,028,555

Current Liabilites

4,452,369

Customer, Admin and General

$56,851,799

$2,401,399

2020 Assets

$56,851,799

2019 Assets

$55,097,349

Asset Growth Equity

Operations and Maintenance

$2,592,799

26

SEPTEMBER 2021

Purchased Power

$ 14,865,997

Capital Credits: Lifetime through 2020

3% 55% $1,298,247

energy travel

MADE-IN-THE-SHADE

getaway Seeking a getaway made

Within the park, visitors will

in the shade? Shades

find lots of amenities and

State Park is a place that

things to do. There’s an

lives up to its name.

amphitheater, bath house,

Located in west northcentral Indiana straddling the Montgomery/Parke/Fountain county junction, this nature lover’s paradise is a favorite for hikers and canoeists. Its beautiful sandstone cliffs overlook Sugar Creek and trails take you through shady ravines. Trails go from easy

a playground, pavilions, picnic areas with shelters, a retail and concession shop, Deer Mill’s Covered Bridge, and nature and recreational programs. Folks can bike, bird watch, camp, picnic, fish, hike, run or jog, shoot photos, see wildlife and wildflowers, sightsee, and stargaze.

to rugged. Some take you

Shades offers 10 hiking

through a creek, over logs

trails, ranging from easy to

and rocks, and up and down

rugged, from a half mile to

ladders.

1.5 miles long. Plus there is a 2.5-mile backpack trail to the

area, with its noted landmarks

In early 1947, the park was

backpack camp.

and natural springs, was

purchased from Frisz’s heirs

for hiking with spectacular

Shades became Indiana’s

being developed as a health

by a holding company until a

topography for those willing

15th state park in 1947. The

resort and recreation area

public subscription campaign

to take longer walks into the

land with its ravines had been

known as “The Shades.” In

(“Save the Shades”) raised

woods.

recognized for its beauty by

1887, a 40-room inn was

the purchase money to

built where the state park’s

donate the land to the state.

The park’s Pine Hills Nature Preserve is a beautiful setting

While the park lacks the more genteel on-site inns and

Native Americans before the first European settlers came

shelter house near Devil’s

to this area in the late 1820s.

Punchbowl now stands.

parks (like nearby Turkey

Since the shallow soils

Run) do, Shades does have

and broken topography

damage and maintenance

over 100 primitive campsites

of the lands that border

for those who love camping

Sugar Creek provided little

in quiet surroundings without

enticement to farmers, the

electricity. There is also

majority of the original forest

a backpack camp that is

escaped destruction. Through

accessible only by hiking.

the rest of the 1800s, the

restaurants as some state

The inn was razed after fire costs.

The “Father of Shades,” Joseph W. Frisz, purchased the land in 1916 and safeguarded the natural areas and dense forests.

Shades State Park is located at 7751 S. 890 W., Waveland, Indiana. For more information, call 765-435-2810 or go online to on.IN.gov/ shadessp.

SEPTEMBER FEBRUARY2021 2019

27 1

do-it-yourself

SPECIAL FEATURE Wallpapering to create an accent wall

The current DIY boom is a result

tool, making sure to go down the

slightly damp cloth to eliminate any

of millions of remote workers being

inside corners to catch those hard-

sanding dust.

reminded daily of the need for home

to-see cobwebs. A stepladder and

improvements. After structural

long-handled duster are needed in

Get primed for paper

fixes and replacement needs are

rooms with cathedral ceilings. Next,

Applying wallboard primer will make

met, the focus moves to aesthetic

gently clean the wall with a damp

the wallpaper easier to install. It

enhancements. Accent (or feature)

sponge. You can use warm water

creates a hard seal that keeps the

walls have been popular for years,

and liquid soap, but make sure

wallpaper’s adhesive slightly wet and

but they’re not just about using an

to remove any soap residue with

allows you to push the sheets into

alternate paint color for a single

another wipe down of fresh water.

alignment during installation. Without proper priming, the wall will quickly

wall anymore. Today’s accent walls can add definition and punch with

Next, it’s crucial to start this project

absorb and bond with the adhesive

modern wallpaper designs. Find your

with a smooth base, so fill in nail

and make it much more difficult to

perfect one, then follow these steps

holes and minor nicks or cracks with

remove. Apply a thin layer of primer

and grab the supplies needed for a

lightweight filler or spackle. Once it’s

using an angled brush to cut around

fun accent wall(papering) project.

completely dry, lightly sand those

trim, corners, and edges and a roller

spots with fine grit sandpaper until

to fill in the rest. Let it dry overnight.

Clean and repair To prevent trapped dust or dirt, first go over the entire wall with a duster

28

SEPTEMBER 2021

the surface is flat and smooth. Go over these areas once more with a

Start from the middle It may be tempting to start from the

corner of the wall with its straight

trends from a bygone era, we get

edge but hanging paper from the

it. However, wallpaper has come a

middle ensures a professional-

long way. But if it’s not for you, there

looking finish. Measure the entire

are many accent wall options. Try

accent wall with a quality tape or

removable wall decals, modern (and

laser measurer and mark the center

actually chic) paneling, or popular

point. Then use a plumb line (or a

shiplap with subtle designs or

level and pencil) to make a vertical

textures that define a space and give

line at the wall’s center point.

it purpose. Whichever you choose, the right tools and a little patience

If your paper isn’t pre-pasted,

will result in a successful home

mix wallpaper paste with water

décor DIY.

as directed and let it stand for a few minutes. In the meantime,

Visit your local Do it Best store or

cut your wallpaper a few inches

doitbest.com for thousands of the

longer in height than you need.

best home improvement products,

Begin applying paste to the back

including wallpapering supplies.

by

Mary Sexton

Mary Sexton is the manager of Connolly’s Do it Best Hardware & Rental’s Illinois Road location in Fort Wayne. Connolly’s is a member-owner 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.

of the wallpaper, working from the middle outward and paying special attention to the edges and corners. Pre-pasted or not, let the

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

wallpaper soak up the paste for the recommended amount of time.

Following the vertical line you marked earlier, hang the paper with an overlap at the top and bottom of the wall. Glide across the paper with a wallpaper smoother to remove any bubbles and creases. Then use a wallpaper razor tool to trim off any extra and create a clean edge. To make sure your next strip matches the pattern already hung, hold dry paper up against it first before marking it for cutting. Repeat this process until you complete your feature wall.

Different accents An accent wall adds personality to a room without being overbearing.

If the thought of wallpaper makes you shudder, recalling decorating

SEPTEMBER 2021

29

Hoosier Energy news

RESILIENT UPGRADES Project strengthens high voltage power lines

Hoosier Energy takes a proactive

it pulls down the next pole and the

approach toward grid reliability.

next pole and the next pole.”

This can be seen in power pole improvements made — stretching from Bloomington to Worthington to Sullivan. The project focused on pole strength through the use of steel structures that have been engineered to be strong enough to hold steady no

Upgrading 1,680 miles of the electrical grid is a significant endeavor in the best of times. Throw in a pandemic, and it’s easy to imagine how the whole thing could get off track.

But that’s not what happened with a recent project.

30

SEPTEMBER 2021

matter what might stress them.

Because it’s easy for bad weather or a vehicle collision to take down a pole, steel poles were added.

To stop the chain reaction, Hoosier Energy strategically places poles that are designed to withstand that force called dead-ends.

“Our crews get the job done no matter what they’re thrown.”

“Our crews get the job done no

“One pole falls and it pulls on the wire

matter what they’re thrown,” said

and it then will pull down the next

Hoosier Energy’s Senior Project

pole because of the wire,” explains

Manager Kyle Eslinger. “It was

Hoosier Energy Manager of Power

a great collaboration across the

System Design Brett Stephens. “And

organization.”

36

FEBRUARY 2019