WIN Energy REMC
YOUR INDIANA COOPERATIVE COMPANION
T he Best
of Indiana
Readers rave about their faves
J UN E 2018
Readers’ Choice for Indiana’s ‘Claim to Fame’ … The Indianapolis 500
Outage Texting Reporting your power outage just got easier!
from the editor
Garfield hits 40 It’s fitting that in this issue — which celebrates the Best of Indiana — I acknowledge the 40th birthday of a true Hoosier icon: Garfield the Cat. The original “grumpy cat,” who loves lasagna and lounging around as much as he loves terrorizing Odie the dog, was created by Indiana’s own Jim Davis, a native of Marion and alumnus of Ball State University. I actually met Jim Davis when the Garfield comic strip was barely past its “kitten” years and I was attending college. Davis was living and drawing near the Ball State campus. I met with him about speaking at a meeting I was organizing. The event, held at the Teacher’s College building, was well-attended and featured Davis, with flip chart paper and Sharpie in hand, deftly sketching the finicky feline and talking about his cartooning career. Little did those of us in attendance know that just a few years later, Garfield would have his own TV special, be featured in a series of books, and even have his own iconic plush toy that millions of fans suction-cupped to car windows in the 1980s. Garfield’s premiere appearance in a comic strip was June 19, 1978. Though a 40-year-old cat would be pushing 200 years old in human years, in his fourth decade, Garfield is as spry and relevant as the day he was first drawn. And he still has a huge fan base — and not just in Indiana or the U.S. In Australia, “Garfield: A Musical with Cattitude” recently completed a 10-day run to celebrate its star’s birthday. And Singapore of all places will host a 40th Anniversary Carnival to honor Garfield June 8-10, complete with games, meet-andgreets, photo booths and limited edition merchandise. Happy Birthday, Garfield! And to think I knew you when!
VOLUME 67 • NUMBER 12 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by:
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 Communications Specialist ADVERTISING Crosshair Media, 502-216-8537; crosshairmedia.net
EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@electricconsumer.org
On the menu: September issue — “Heirloom” recipes (that have been in the family for ages): deadline June 11. October — Pizza recipes: July 16. If we publish your recipe on our food page, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.
Reader Submissions page: September — “Heirloom” photos
(Your personal photos from “the good old days”): deadline June 11. October issue — Photos of your favorite carved pumpkins: deadline July 16.
Giveaway: We’re giving away to a randomly selected entrant an overnight stay from French Lick Resorts, our Best of Indiana Girls’ Weekend Getaway winner. See page 20 for details about French Lick. To enter, send us your contact information along with the name of your co-op. Put “June Giveaway” in the title. The deadline to submit your entry is June 15.
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, PO Box 24517, Indianapolis, IN 46224.
GLM Communications, Inc., 212-929-1300; glmcommunications.com 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. 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.
JUNE 2018
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contents
JUNE POWER OUT?
text
out
to 85700*
05
17
co-op news
food
03 FROM THE EDITOR
16 INDIANA EATS
05 CO-OP NEWS Out of power? Now you can grab your phone and text us.
Mishawaka is a farm-totable twist on fine dining.
10 ENERGY 12 INSIGHTS 14 PRODUCT PICKS Summer is a go-go-go time. Here are ways to take your electronics with you.
wisely.
17 FOOD Strawberry recipes — a sweet taste of June.
26 EVENTS CALENDAR
19 COVER STORY Readers share more of their favorite things in our annual “Best of Indiana” survey.
Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ElectricConsumer Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/Electriconsumer
28 OUTDOORS 29 SAFETY Share electric rules with kids.
feature
30 BACKYARD Tomatoes still the apples of gardeners’ eyes! 32 H OOSIER ENERGY 33 PROFILE Though he’s not made a bucket since 1992, legendary basketball star Larry Bird remains close to Hoosier hoops … and the hearts of our readers.
On the Cover The roar of 350,000 fans can’t compete with the roar of 33 race cars burning down
Find us on Pinterest www.pinterest.com/Electriconsumer
the front straightaway at 230 mph.
Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/ElectricConsumer
Spectacle in Racing” — the Indianapolis 500
Electric Consumer readers said the “Greatest — is still our state’s best claim to fame. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY
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cover story 22 FEATURE We can’t live without appliances, but we can make sure we use them
winenergyremc.com Corndance Tavern in
rd text messaging rates apply.
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co-op news
Improving outage reporting and communication www.winenergyremc.com CONTACT US Toll Free: 800-882-5140 Local: 812-882-5140 Fax: 812-886-0306 AUTOMATED EXPRESS SERVICES For outages and payments, call: 888-456-9876 OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. local time Monday-Friday VINCENNES OFFICE 3981 S. U.S. Highway 41 Vincennes, IN 47591 PRINCETON OFFICE 1314 W. 100 N. Princeton, IN 47670 SULLIVAN OFFICE 2044 W. State Road 154 Sullivan, IN 47882 UNDERGROUND LINE LOCATING Please call 811 at least two business days before you plan to dig. OFFICE CLOSINGS New Year’s: Jan. 1 and 2; Good Friday: March 30; Memorial Day: May 28; Independence Day: July 4; Labor Day: Sept. 3; Veterans Day: Nov. 12; Thanksgiving: Nov. 22 and 23; Christmas: Dec. 24 and 25; 2019 New Year’s: Dec. 31 and Jan. 1. METER READING DATES Cycle 1: June 2; Cycle 2: June 7; Cycle 3: June 16; Cycle 4: June 25; Cycle 5: July 1; Cycle 6: July 1. JUNE TREE TRIMMING LOCATIONS Tree trimming crews will be in the following areas this month: • Knox County — Harrison Township Johnson Township Palmyra Township Steen Township Specific locations can be found at www.winenergyremc.com. Like us on Facebook facebook.com/winenergyremc
When I think of summer, I think of family, fun, and relaxation. But summer can also bring severe storms. When summer storms roll in, we are ready to respond. At WIN Energy REMC, we strive to provide you with reliable electric service you can count on. Despite our best efforts, during storms outages can occur. We are continually working to improve our communications to you during outages and provide convenient options for reporting your outage. As technology evolves, we have more tools to help us better pinpoint outage locations and provide you with information. Even with this technology, it is still very important for you to report outages to us when they occur. By reporting your outage, you are helping our outage system predict the possible location of the outage. As we receive reports of outages, predicted outages are displayed on our Outage Map. These outages can be viewed from our website or directly at outage.winenergyremc.com. The Outage Map is a graphical representation of current predicted outages which shows where they are occurring and the number of members effected. There are several convenient ways to report your outage which include: • Express Services — Call our Express Services number at 888-456-9876. This is an automated reporting system that allows you to report your outage 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Status updates are available through this automated system as crews are working and outages are verified. Please be sure to keep your telephone numbers updated on your WIN Energy
REMC account to allow this system to quickly and easily locate your account. • SmartHub — Simply login to your SmartHub account on your computer, tablet, or smart phone and report your outage through the SmartHub webpage or mobile app. • Call our office — Call us at 800-8825140 to report your outage. During regular business hours, phones are answered live by our member services representatives. During non-business hours, phones are answered by our after-hours answering service. • NEW: Outage Texting — We have added a new option for reporting your outage by text message. Simply grab your mobile phone and send us a quick text message. Text OUT to 85700 to report your outage and get status updates by texting STATUS to 85700. If your cell phone number is currently listed on your account, you are able to report your outage by text. If your cell phone number is not listed on your account, contact our office to add it to your account and opt-in to outage texting. This summer, enjoy your time with family and friends. And when storms roll in, know that we are ready to respond when you report an outage. We will continue to communicate with you during outages, by providing status updates through Express Services and Outage Texting, as well as on our Facebook page and local media outlets such as television and radio. As a member, we are here to serve you, and we will continue to work hard to provide convenient outage reporting methods and communications to you when outages occur.
TOM GREGORY CEO
JUNE 2018
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co-op news
POWER OUT? POWER OUT?
text text
out out
Outage Texting Keywords Text these keywords to get more information on your outage, help with outage texting, or opt-out of outage texting.
STATUS Request a status update on an outage you have previously reported.
HELP Support on the outage texting service.
STOP
* to 85700 to 85700*
*Standard text messaging rates apply. ssaging rates apply.
Opt-out of outage texting. (You will no longer receive messages from WIN Energy REMC or be able to report outages. To restart you will need to Opt-in by texting WINREMC to 85700.) To report outages your number must be opted in to the program and listed on your WIN Energy REMC account. For questions about outage texting please call our office at 800-882-5140.
POWER OUT?
text
out
to 85700*
*Standard text messaging rates apply.
winenergyremc.com
*Standard text messaging rates apply.
winenergyremc.com winenergyremc.com
sting veYouth Iinnour
co-op news
I
t all takes place in June: Hundreds of students from Indiana will attend the Youth Tour to Washington D.C., and Touchstone Energy Camp in Brookston, Indiana.
These Students will gain valuable experiences, meet new friends, and learn about how electric cooperatives function. WIN Energy REMC is pleased to provide this opportunity for local students. This year’s WIN Energy REMC Youth Tour participants are: • Colton Hadley from Princeton Community High School, • Brooke Lueking from Sullivan High School, • Morgan Clouse from Sullivan High School. They will join over 100 other Indiana high school juniors on this life changing experience. It’s a great opportunity for our young people to learn the history of our country, to gain a better understanding of how our government works, and learn how they can make a difference in the political process. While in D.C., participants have a chance to meet with their elected officials and discuss the issues that are important back home. Without a doubt, Youth Tour has grown into an invaluable program that gives young Americans an experience that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Also this month WIN Energy REMC will sponsor three students at the annual Touchstone Energy Camp. The camp will be held June 6-9, 2018, at Camp Tecumseh in Brookston, Indiana. This year’s participants are Makinley Beard, Ally West, and Bodie Stonerock. Students entering seventh grade in 2018 are eligible to attend and are selected by their local cooperative to participate in the threeday program. The students’ agenda combines traditional outdoor camp activities with environmental education, electrical safety practices, and cooperative business education. As your local electric cooperative, WIN Energy REMC is proud to be part of this great opportunity for our youth. We are investing in our youth, giving them the opportunity to grow as leaders and to make a difference in our local communities.
JUNE 2018
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g n i h t u e l s y g Ener energy
WHAT A HOME ENERGY AUDIT CAN REVEAL
Spending a few hundred dollars on
and high-tech tools to provide a thorough
but there are usually larger and less
an energy audit now could save you
report of your home’s challenges and
obvious sources. A blower door test
thousands of dollars over time.
opportunities. A professional audit
measures how airtight your home is
can range from a quick, visual walk-
and identifies where the air leaks are.
A home energy audit is a detailed assessment of your home that can give you a roadmap for future energy-related investments: • What efficiency investments will be
through to a more comprehensive, more informative — but more expensive —
• Duct blaster: Ducts move the warm and cool air around your home; duct
assessment.
testing can measure whether your
Energy audits require an examination of
ducts are leaking.
most effective in reducing your energy
the building envelope (attic, floor, and
• Thermographic imaging: This is one
bills?
exterior walls) and the energy systems
way to identify where more insulation
in the home, such as the water heater,
is needed. Infrared images show “cold”
air conditioner and furnace. Follow the
or “hot” spots in a home’s envelope.
auditor during the inspection, and ask
Identifying where more insulation is
questions so you can understand where
needed is a key component in energy
the problems are, what you can address
audits — too little insulation will make
yourself and where you may need further
you use more energy than needed.
professional help.
Adding more can provide a quick
• Why might some areas of your home be too hot or too cold at times? • Would a new furnace, air conditioner and/or rooftop solar system be appropriate? If so, what size? And what complementary measures will help these large investments work most efficiently?
The auditor may analyze your recent
Online audit tools can give you a basic understanding of how your home compares to similar ones. However, a qualified and professional home energy auditor can use his or her experience
return on investment.
energy bills to determine what your
Following the assessment of your home,
energy is used for and if use has
the auditor will analyze the information
recently changed. Finally, the auditor will
and make recommendations on what
ask about the energy use behaviors of
systems could be upgraded or what
those who live in the home.
behavior changes you can make
For example, is someone home all day, or does everyone leave for work and school? A resident’s habits can make a big impact on the energy bill. If you go
to reduce energy use and improve comfort. If you follow your auditor’s recommendations, you could lower your energy bill 5 to 30 percent, or more!
from being a household with two working
Your electric co-op can help you get
adults to one with a new baby and an
started with your audit. Most co-ops offer
adult home most of the day, your energy
audits or will provide a list of qualified
use is going to go up.
energy auditors in the area. Being home
An auditor may do some or all of the following tests: • Blower door test: Windows are often the suspected cause for air leaks,
during the audit is a great opportunity to learn what makes your home tick and how you can make it even better. For more information, please visit: www.collaborativeefficiency.com/energytips.
On a warm day, an infrared sensor shows heat gain up to 98 F around poorly-insulated canned ceiling lights above (the red blobs on the sensor’s display). The temperature at the red laser point reads 82.2 F. FILE P H OTO ILLU STRATI O N BY RI CHARD G . BI EVER
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JUNE 2018
TECHNOLOGY SIMPLIFIED – BIGGER AND BETTER
Wow! A Simple to Use Computer Designed Especially for Seniors! Easy to read. Easy to see. Easy to use. Just plug it in! NEW
Now comes with... Larger 22-inch hi-resolution screen – easier to see 16% more viewing area Simple navigation – so you never get lost Intel® processor – lightning fast Computer is in the monitor – No bulky tower Speech to Text translation – You talk, It types for you Text to Speech translation – it can even read your emails to you! U.S. Based Customer Service
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Have you ever said to yourself “I’d love to get a computer, if only I could figure out how to use it.” Well, you’re not alone. Computers were supposed to make our lives simpler, but they’ve gotten so complicated that they are not worth the trouble. With all of the “pointing and clicking” and “dragging and dropping” you’re lucky if you can figure out where you are. Plus, you are constantly worrying about viruses and freeze-ups. If this sounds familiar, we have great news for you. There is finally a computer that’s designed for simplicity and ease of use. It’s the WOW Computer, and it was designed with you in mind. This computer is easy-to-use, worry-free and literally
puts the world at your fingertips. From the moment you open the box, you’ll realize how different the WOW Computer is. The components are all connected; all you do is plug it into an outlet and your high-speed Internet connection. Then you’ll see the screen – it’s now 22 inches. This is a completely new touch screen system, without the cluttered look of the normal computer screen. The “buttons” on the screen are easy to see and easy to understand. All you do is touch one of them, from the Web, Email, Calendar to Games– you name it… and a new screen opens up. It’s so easy to use you won’t have to ask your children or grandchildren for help. Until now, the very people who could benefit most from E-mail and the Internet are the ones that have had the hardest time accessing it. Now, thanks to the WOW Computer, countless older Americans are discovering the
wonderful world of the Internet every day. Isn’t it time you took part? Call now, and you’ll find out why tens of thousands of satisfied seniors are now enjoying their WOW Computers, emailing their grandchildren, and experiencing everything the Internet has to offer. Call today! • Send & Receive Emails • Have video chats with family and friends • Surf the Internet: Get current weather and news • Play games Online: Hundreds to choose from! Call now toll free and find out how you can get the new WOW! Computer. Mention promotional code 109265 for special introductory pricing.
1-888-864-0526 © 2018 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.
81177
“I love this computer! It is easy to read and to use! I get photo updates from my children and grandchildren all the time.” – Janet F.
insights
Electric Consumer
RE LO CATES OFFIC ES
Effective June 4, Electric Consumer has a new home base. The electric cooperative magazine, along with its publisher, Indiana Electric Cooperatives, is now located on Indianapolis’ northeast side near the Keystone at the Crossing shopping complex.
Search on for historic farm buildings AWARD TO BE PRESENTED AT STATE FAIR Does your farm property include a
The award winner will receive an
historic farmhouse, barn, agricultural
outdoor marker, a vehicle pass to
outbuilding or landscape element? If
the Indiana State Fair, and overnight
so, consider applying for the 2018 John
accommodations in Indianapolis for the
Arnold Award for Rural Preservation. The
formal presentation.
award, to be presented at the Indiana State Fair by Indiana Landmarks and the Indiana Farm Bureau, recognizes the
The magazine, which will begin its
preservation and continued agricultural
68th year of publication next month,
use of historic farm buildings in Indiana.
was headquartered on the westside of Indianapolis since 1974. Prior to that, its offices were in downtown Indianapolis. Electric Consumer is mailed out to consumers of 28 electric cooperatives. Over 275,000 copies of the magazine are distributed each month. Indiana Electric Cooperatives is the service association for 38 member-owned electric cooperatives throughout the state. The new address is 8888 Keystone Ave., Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240. You
Indiana Landmarks named the award in memory of John Arnold (1955-1991), a Rush County farmer who successfully combined progressive architectural practices with a deep respect for the
Anyone, including farm owners, can
natural and historic features of the rural
submit a nomination for the award. The
landscape. The John Arnold Award
nomination asks for:
honors those who share a similar
• A brief history of the farm and a description of its significant historic structures and features. • A description of how the farm’s
commitment to preserving the landmarks and landscape of rural Indiana. The award’s nomination form is available at bit.ly/ArnoldAward18 or by contacting
historic agricultural structures
Tommy Kleckner at Indiana Landmarks
are used in day-to-day farming
at 812-232-4534 or tkleckner@
operations, and how they have been
indianalandmarks.org. Deadline for
preserved or adapted.
nominations is June 15 at 5 p.m.
• High-res digital photographs of
can continue to email Electric Consumer
the farm and its preserved historic
staff at ec@electricconsumer.org.
features.
New Indiana school focuses on agricultural training Online students in Indiana are about to get their hands dirty. Indiana Agriculture & Technology School (IATS) is a new tuition-free charter school that couples online learning with labs and project-based activities down on the farm. Enrollment is now open to Indiana residents, grades 7-12. Online coursework is offered for Core 40, Core 40 Honors, and Core 40 Technical Honors diploma programs. AP opportunities are also provided. Enrollment is capped at 160 students per grade level. In addition to coursework, on-campus lab work will be offered at the school’s 600+ acre farm in Morgan County. The school is also working to establish a network of corporate and farming partners throughout the state to provide student internships and jobs.
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To learn more about Indiana Agriculture & Technology School, visit www.indiana.ag. Classes start July 30.
product picks
Takin’ it with you For most people, summer is go-go-go time. And when you’re on the move, you need electronics that will move with
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you. Here are a few that may
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POWER TO GO When stormy weather is on the horizon or hits, grab the Best Emergency Radio/ Charger. Get NOAA alerts, listen to the radio and charge your devices as you weather the storm. It’s a powerful flashlight, too. $100. 800-321-1484; hammacher.com
JUNE 2018
BY JAYNE CANNON
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make your days a bit sunnier.
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TALKING DIRTY
PARLEZ-VOUS?
You take your phone everywhere ... which means it picks up grime and germs. Clean it up with the PhoneSoap Smartphone Sanitizer. Insert phone, close the lid and in about 10 minutes, your device is germ-free and ready for duty. $60. 888-365-0056; uncommongoods.com
No matter where you roam, you’ll speak the local language with the Live Conversation Speaking Translator. The handheld device translates your words into any of 12 languages or will translate what’s said to you into English. $350. 800-321-1484; hammacher.com
ROLL WITH MUSIC
LIGHT READING
THINLY SLICED
It’s not a day at the beach without your playlists, but why risk turning your smartphone into a sandy, soggy mess? Enter the Drifter Action Speaker. Download your favorites and jam for eight hours on a single charge. $200. 888-365-0056; uncommongoods.com
You love to read at the beach, beside the pool or in the tub, but books get heavy — especially when waterlogged! Take your library with you on the Kindle Oasis that will let you listen to books as well as read them. And it’s waterproof. From $250. 888-280-4331; amazon.com
Apple’s mini 4 is the slimmest iPad yet, but it has a girth of features: a crisp, 7.9-inch Retina Display; 8MP camera; 1080p HD video recording; and a speedy A8 processor. It’s your perfectly portable digital media center. From $399. 800-692–7753; apple.com
TAVERN TAKES FINE DINING UP A NOTCH Looking for a creative twist to a fine dining experience? Corndance Tavern in Mishawaka, a farm-to-table favorite of foodies in northern Indiana, is renowned not only for specialities like bison and elote corn (fire roasted with lime juice, mayo, ancho chile, cilantro and cotija cheese) but for its even more unusual fare. Take the restaurant’s signature dish: the aptly named “Sword of John Adams.” An ample selection of steak, chicken, sausages or prawns (choice of meats varies) is impressively skewered on, yes, a sword, and presented to the, hopefully, hungry diner with steakhouse sides. Unusual culinary presentations are the norm at Corndance. Lobster and Shrimp Rigatoni is served in a collectible mason jar and the popular Birramisu dessert, a unique take on tiramisu, is prepared and served in a beer can. Corndance Tavern is just one of owner George Pesek’s forays into food — and drink. Corndance — named for the region’s native Potawatomi Indians’ rituals to thank their gods for bountiful harvests — is the dinnertime dining option featuring an extensive menu of dry-aged meats, some seafood, sausages and even frankfurters. Bourbon and Butcher, a combo butcher shop/informal eatery is open from 11 am-3 pm. Pesek’s Evil Czech Brewery serves up innovative craft beers along with upscale bar food from
Corndance Tavern
mid-day to late evening. (With names like “Vladimir Poutine” and the “Fungus Amongus” burger noted on the menu,
4725 Grape Road
Mishawaka, Indiana
who wouldn’t be intrigued with the Evil
574-217-7584
Czech’s offerings?) For those wanting to take Corndance brats, burgers, dogs
Hours
or sausages with them during tailgating
Mon.-Sat.: 5-10 pm Sun.: 5-9 pm
season, they can order online at www.
Website
corndance.com/tailgate-packages/
corndance.com
PHO TO CO URTESY O F CO RNDANCE TAVERN
food Grab some some fresh or frozen strawberries to prepare these readers’ recipes.
Strawberry SWEETS
Easy Strawberry Soup by Eileen Fisse, Greensburg 2 cups vanilla yogurt ½ cup orange juice 8 cups fresh, sliced strawberries ½ cup sugar In a blender, combine yogurt, juice, strawberries and sugar in batches. Cover and process until smooth. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. To serve, you can garnish with fresh strawberry slices and a spoonful of yogurt. (We garnished with mint leaves.) Cook’s notes: It’s an easy, quick soup in the hot summertime! I won first place in the soup class at our county fair last year.
Grandma Lewis’ Baked Strawberry Pie by Lois Lewis, Henryville 1½ lbs. (24-oz. frozen) strawberries ½ to ¾ cup sugar 2-4 T. cornstarch (heaping scoops) 2 unbaked pie crusts (1 for top) Place 1 pie crust in pie plate. Cook strawberries, sugar and cornstarch until it thickens like syrup. Pour into unbaked pie shell. Cover with top crust. Pinch sides and slit top. Bake at 360 F for approximately 50–60 minutes. Cook’s notes: This recipe was passed down to me from my mother-in-law several years ago. All the family requests it at gatherings. I didn’t get one made this year for Christmas, and I was informed it was missing.
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food FO O D PREPARED BY ELECTRI C CO NS UME R S TA FF PHO TO S BY RI CHA RD G . B I E V E R
Baskin-Robbins Cake by Shirley Bickel, Freedom CRUST: 1½ cups flour ¼ cup powdered sugar Dash of salt ¾ cup butter or margarine, softened ½ cup finely chopped pecans Combine flour, ¼ cup powdered sugar and a dash of salt. Cut in butter or margarine until crumbly. Stir in pecans. Pat mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Bake at 375 F for 1012 minutes or until light brown. Cool completely. FILLING: 2 (10-oz.) bags frozen strawberries, thawed ½ cup strawberry juice 1 envelope unflavored gelatin 2 (8-oz.) packages cream cheese, softened 1 cup powdered sugar 1 (8-oz.) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed Thaw strawberries. Remove ½ cup juice; place in a small saucepan.
Marshmallow Strawberry Cake
Sprinkle gelatin over juice. Heat over
by Kerri Ladeburg, Romney
low heat to melt gelatin. Pour over strawberries. Stir and set aside.
2 cups mini marshmallows
In a small bowl, mix thawed
Beat softened cream cheese and
2 (10-oz.) packages
strawberries and gelatin together;
frozen strawberries
set aside.
powdered sugar until fluffy. By hand, stir in strawberry mixture and thawed whipped topping, combining well. Pour into cooled crust and freeze. Remove from freezer and let rest 20-30 minutes before serving. Cut in squares. Top with additional whipped topping and fresh strawberries, if desired.
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1 (3-oz.) box strawberry gelatin 1 box yellow cake mix, plus required ingredients Grease a 9x13 inch pan. Spread 2
Mix cake as directed. Then, pour over marshmallows. Add strawberries and gelatin mixture over cake batter.
cups mini marshmallows in bottom
Bake at 350 F for 45–50 minutes.
of pan.
Marshmallows will come to the top to form a crust. Serve warm or cold.
T he Best
of Indiana Readers rave about their faves BY EMI LY SC H ILLING
W
ith summer just a few weeks away, now’s the perfect time to add new places to your Hoosier bucket lists.
Electric Consumer readers have been providing their picks of places to check out since we announced in March that our “Readers’ Choice Awards” would be back. After sharing their favorites in four categories — Best Fried Chicken, Best Antique Store, Best Girls’ Getaway and Best Guys’ Getaway — they cast their votes in the most competitive categories: Famous Hoosier and Claim to Fame (which could literally be anything: what defines being a Hoosier, what makes our state unique, a renowned place or event, etc.). Did your favorites match up to other readers’ picks? Turn the page to see what ... or who ... has been chosen as this year’s Best of Indiana.
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BEST ANTIQUE STORE BEST FRIED CHICKEN
The Chicken House 7180 Highway 111 Sellersburg, Indiana 47172 812-246-9485 thechickenhouseonline.com The Chicken House’s no-nonsense, no-frills name pretty much sums up why folks flock to this old white building off St. Joe’s Road in Sellersburg: its fried chicken. Oh, there’s other stuff on the menu — pork chops, steak, ham, oysters, fish and shrimp — but chicken
Red Barn Antique Mall
add to your collection: furniture, quilts,
215 Highway 62 W. Corydon, IN 47112 812-738-6000 www.redbarnantiquemall.com
embroidered linens, glassware, books,
The painted signage on the Red Barn
and Kentucky Derby glasses will want to
Antique Mall mimics those Mail Pouch
check out the selection at the Red Barn.
Tobacco barns of yesteryear— right down
Paintings and handcrafted items from
to the tag line: “Treat Yourself to the Best.”
local artisans are also available at the mall.
baskets, jewelry and so much more, all on three floors. Collectors of regional goodies like Corydon’s own Zimmerman Art Glass, M.A. Hadley pottery, Louisville Stoneware
Red Barn is open seven days a week.
The best is, in fact, what antique lovers will find in this huge browsers’
Keep an eye out for the store’s lovable
paradise on Highway 62 in Corydon.
kitty mascot who can usually be found
No matter what you’re searching for,
nestled on a quilt or blanket, waiting to
there will surely be something you can
be petted.
is the star attraction (although the homemade yeast rolls are fan favorites in their supporting roles). Restaurant regulars liken this home-cooking haven to the “Cheers” bar from the TV show “where everybody knows your name.” As that family-friendly vibe suggests, there’s no need to get fancied-up before heading to dinner at The Chicken House. Just bring an “A game” appetite. The generous dinners include salad, potato, two veggies and a roll.
Win a night at French Lick Electric Consumer is giving away an overnight stay at the French Lick Springs Hotel. Deadline to enter is June 15. Please see page 5 for details.
Giveaway GETAWAY
Since everything is cooked to
patrons, enjoy an ice cold beer, and
French Lick Resorts
get psyched up for some crispy, tender
www.visitFrenchLickWestBaden.com
chicken, just like Electric Consumer readers like it. And, if you like a deal,
Last year’s Readers’ Choice for Best
bring a hungry friend with you to
Weekend Getaway is this year’s pick for
dinner. The Chicken House has a
Best Getaway for gal pals.
“Buy one, get one half off” special on
The historic and luxurious French
chicken dinners, Monday-Thursday
Lick Resorts offer everything a girl could
from 4-7:30 pm and Friday-Saturday,
want: beautiful, comfortable rooms; fine
4-9 pm.
food; activities like golf and gambling; and two full-service spas at its two hotels:
20
JUNE 2018
PHO TO CO URTESY O F FRENCH LI CK RE S O RTS
BEST GIRLS’ GETAWAY
order, expect a bit of a wait. You’ll have plenty of time to chat with other
The Relaxation Room at the French Lick Springs Hotel.
the West Baden Springs Hotel and the French Lick Springs Hotel. Those in need of intensive pampering can choose from an extensive menu of spa services like facials, manicures, pedicures, scrubs, wraps, massages and French Lick’s famous mineral baths. Once you’re sufficiently destressed, travel by trolley between hotels or just wander the grounds and take in the scenery. Or, visit the area’s quaint shops, antique stores and wineries.
FAMOUS HOOSIER
Larry Bird “Larry Legend” was the overwhelming choice for favorite Famous Hoosier, surpassing Vice President Mike Pence, John Mellencamp and James Whitcomb Riley. To learn more about Larry Bird, please turn to our Profile page — PHO TO S BY I STO CK/ G ETTY I M AG ES PLUS
BEST GUYS’ GETAWAY
Indiana lakes
bluegill and crappie fishing; and Cecil
https://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3077.htm You can lead a guy to water ... and when you do, according to Electric Consumer readers, he’ll be sure to cast his fishing pole. Our readers’ top pick for a guys’ trip was to one of Indiana’s many lakes to go fishing. Patoka Lake, spread across Dubois, Crawford and Orange counties in southern Indiana, was the favorite fishing spot. Indiana’s second largest lake at 8,800 acres is a prime spot to catch bass, stripers, sunfish, catfish and crappie. Lake Monroe, the state’s largest lake, is home to carp, catfish, bass, crappie and walleye; West Boggs Lake, good for largemouth bass, bream,
M. Harden Lake (Raccoon Lake), home to largemouth, smallmouth and striped bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, walleye and white bass, also received votes. For those who have yet to catch the fishing bug, take advantage of two “Free Fishing Days” this month (June 2-3) when you don’t need a fishing license or trout/salmon stamp to fish the state’s public waters. For information on purchasing a fishing license, visit https://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/52330.htm or call 317-232-4200. By the way, quite a few readers cast votes for French Lick Resorts, which was named Best Girls’ Getaway. It just goes to prove, what’s good for the goose is good for the gander!
CLAIM TO FAME
Indianapolis 500 Indianapolis Motor Speedway 4790 W. 16th St. Indianapolis, IN 46222 317-492-8500 www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com Electric Consumer readers love the Hoosier state for so many reasons. Some liked the friendly people. Others enjoyed the State Fair or high school basketball. Farmers markets, community festivals, and the beautiful scenery were all cited for making our state special. But most folks noted that the quintessential Hoosier experience
happens each year on the day before Memorial Day on a 2.5 mile racetrack in Speedway, Indiana. The Indianapolis 500, an internationally known tradition of fast cars, famed drivers, pit stops and ladies and gentlemen starting their engines was the readers’ choice for Indiana’s claim to fame. The 500, which just celebrated its 102nd running on May 27, draws approximately 300,000 race fans each year to the track. Billed and (trademarked) as “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” it is the largest single-day sporting event in the world. Not only that, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the world’s largest
coincidentally but appropriately — page number 33.
‘Best of INDIANA’ at a GLANCE 1 BEST FRIED CHICKEN: The Chicken House, Sellersburg Close second: Stone’s Family Restaurant, Milhousen
4
5
4 2 BEST ANTIQUE 4 3 STORE: 1 4 2 Red Barn Antique Mall, Corydon Close second: Picker’s Paradise, Columbus 3 BEST GIRLS’ GETAWAY: French Lick Resorts (includes both the historic French Lick Springs and West Baden Springs hotels) 4 BEST GUYS’ GETAWAY: Indiana lakes — Monroe, Patoka, West Boggs and Harden (Raccoon) 5 BEST INDIANA CLAIM TO FAME: Indianapolis 500 6 BEST FAMOUS HOOSIER: Larry Bird
$50 WINNERS Electric Consumer thanks all who took time to offer opinions by filling out and mailing in the published ballot or by going online. The three ballots randomly drawn for $50 participation prizes belonged to: • Brandi Summers, Attica, member of Tipmont REMC; • Amy Simpson, Tell City, member of Southern Indiana Power; • Ross Carothers, Elizabethtown, member of Bartholomew County REMC.
sporting facility in terms of capacity.
JUNE 2018
21
Appliance
reliance
We can’t live without ’em, but we can use them more wisely
W
here would you be without those
appliance’s purchase price. Think of it as a
time- and labor-saving applianc-
down payment. The second price tag is for
es in your kitchen and laundry
what you’ll have to pay on your electric bill to
room? You’d probably be right there in the
operate the appliance throughout its lifetime.
kitchen and laundry room a lot longer than
you realize how important it is to purchase
folks did before electricity. And that’s certain-
energy-efficient appliances. That’s why you
ly not practical, considering today’s hectic
want to pay attention to the bright yellow
lifestyles!
EnergyGuide on the appliance when you
Those appliances — like refrigerators,
appliance’s annual energy consumption and
and dryers — account for about 13 percent
operating cost. Consider this information
of your home’s energy costs. It makes sense
when deciding which appliance to buy. In
— and cents — to get the most out of those
the long run, what you think is a bargain may
appliances and to save energy whenever
really not be.
The next time you go appliance
JUNE 2018
go shopping. Read the label to find out the
ranges, dishwashers and clothes washers
possible.
22
When you consider that second price tag,
you are now, tackling chores the hard way like
Also when shopping, look for the blue ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY STAR products
shopping, consider the two price tags
exceed the federal minimum standards for
you’ll be facing. The first accounts for the
efficiency and quality.
How to read the EnergyGuide label
• Be sure your dishwasher is full —
making sure it is half in, half out,
but not overloaded — when you
of the door. Can you pull the
run it.
paper out easily? If so, the latch
• Scrape, but don’t rinse, food
may need to be adjusted, the seal may need to be replaced, or you
The label provides information about
residue that’s especially messy
energy consumption and shows
off dishes before loading the
you how much energy an appliance
dishwasher. No need to soak or
uses compared with similar models.
pre-wash dishes and pans unless
unwrapped foods in the fridge.
Keep in mind that the numbers are
there is burned or dried-up food
Not only is it unsanitary — the
averages; actual costs may differ
on them.
food will release moisture that
depending on how you use the appliances. Information on the label: • Maker, model number and size of the appliance • Estimated yearly operating cost (based on the national average cost of electricity), and the range of operating costs for similar models. • The ENERGY STAR logo on the
• Let your dishes air dry. • Your refrigerator and freezer should keep your food cold — but don’t set the temperature too low. The recommended temperature for the fresh food compartment
the cost comparison range.
Wise energy use will save you money
• When using your stove’s range, match the size of the pan to the heating element. • Cooking for one or two? Use and convection ovens instead
in your refrigerator, place an
of your stove or oven to save as
appliance thermometer in a glass
much as one-third to one-half of
of water in the center of the
the energy you’d use with your
fridge. After 24 hours you can
full-sized oven.
says. Find out your freezer’s
the similar models that make up
harder.
F. To calculate the temperature
strict criteria for energy efficiency.
• Key features of the appliance and
can make your compressor work
small electric pans, toaster ovens
look to see what the thermometer
consumption.
• Don’t store uncovered or
is 37-40 F. For the freezer, it’s 5
label shows that the model meets
• Estimated yearly electricity
may need a new refrigerator.
temperature by placing the appliance thermometer between
• Pressure cookers and microwave ovens are also convenient energy savers — and time savers.
frozen packages in the freezer. Again, read the thermometer after 24 hours. • Refrigerator door seals should be airtight. To test the seal, close the door over a piece of paper
Here are some easy tips to help you save energy and money in the kitchen and laundry room.
JUNE 2018
23
co-op news • Unless you’re tackling oily stains
• Remember to periodically check
• Plug home electronics like TVs
on your clothes, wash them
your dryer vent to make sure it is
and DVD players into power
in cold water using cold-water
not blocked. A clear vent will save
strips. Turn the power strips off
detergents.
you energy and reduce fire risks.
when the equipment is not being
Vents should be made from a
used. TVs and DVD players in
rigid material, not plastic. Plastic
standby mode still use several
vents can collapse, resulting in
watts of power.
• Try to wash and dry full laundry loads. If you have to wash a small load, use the appropriate waterlevel setting. • Speed up the drying process by drying towels and heavier cotton items separately from lighterweight items. • Make it a habit to check and clean your dryer’s lint screen as you’re unloading the dryer. This improves air circulation and helps prevent fires. • Use your dryer’s cool down cycle. Your clothes can finish drying with the heat that remains in the dryer.
24
JUNE 2018
blockages.
Easy ways to save energy in other rooms of your house • Install a programmable thermostat to manage heating and cooling systems efficiently. • Turn things like lights, TVs, entertainment systems and your computer and monitor off when you are not in the room or are not using them.
• Lower your water heater’s thermostat to 120 F. • Take short showers instead of baths. Use low-flow showerheads. • Ensure that windows and doors are closed when heating or cooling your home.
calendar NORTHWEST
9
NATIONAL GET OUTDOORS DAY OPEN HOUSE, Chesterton (Porter), Dunes Learning Center. Join naturalists and National Park Service rangers for a day of guided activities and adventures. Free. Online registration requested. 11 am-3 pm. 219-395-9555. duneslearningcenter.org
9
LIBRARY CONCERT SERIES, Monticello (White), MonticelloUnion Township Library. An evening with the Moon Cats band at Constitution Plaza. 6 pm. Free. 574-583-2665, ext. 3307. adult@monticello.lib. in.us. monticello.lib.in.us
23
ART IN THE STREET, Plymouth (Marshall), Downtown. Enjoy art, entertainment, kids’ activities, food and more. Free. 10 am-3 pm. 574-274-4376. shelleyheiden@heidencreative. com. heartlandartgallery.com
CENTRAL
1-2
BANKS OF THE WABASH FESTIVAL, Terre Haute (Vigo). Fairbanks Park. Live music, food, crafters, midway rides and games nightly. Free. 812-232-2727. terrehaute.in.gov/parks
1316
KNIGHTSTOWN JUBILEE DAYS, Knightstown (Henry), Town Square. Carnival rides, games, queen contest, parade, chamber fish wagon, and more. Rain or shine. Free. 800-668-1895. knightstownchamber.org
23
TENDERLOIN THROWDOWN, Greensburg (Decatur), Downtown Square. This food competition names the best pork tenderloin sandwich in the state. Four categories, craft beer, wine, kids’ fun, shopping. Free. 812-222-0037. mainstreetgreensburg.com.
SOUTHWEST
15
BRUTALLY HANDSOME, Mitchell (Lawrence), Mitchell Opera House. Brutally Handsome is a group that celebrates the music of the Eagles. 7 pm. Tickets: $15, adults; $6, kids 12 and under. 812-849-4447. aprince@hoosieruplands.org. mitchelloperahouse.com
1516
FERDINAND HEIMATFEST, Ferdinand (Dubois), 18th Street Park. Live entertainment, kids area, food, games. 5K Walk/ Run. Admission charge. Fri: 5 pm-1 am, Sat: 8 am-1 am. $4 for beer garden. 812-6612711. nweyer1490@gmail.com. ferdinandheimatfest.com
26
JUNE 2018
2930
LIMESTONE HERITAGE FESTIVAL, Bedford (Lawrence), Downtown Square. Music, food, limestone carving exhibit, bike show, parade, fireworks and more. Free. 812-329-4221. downtown bedford.org
June NORTHEAST
1
CHAMBER CLASSIC GOLF OUTING, Portland (Jay), Portland Golf Club. Outing will feature scramble format and golf clinic. Registration, 9 am. Shotgun start, 10 am. 260-726-4481. membership@ jaycountychamber.com. www.jaycountychamber.com
1922
44TH ANNUAL QUILT SHOW & SALE, Topeka (LaGrange), Eden Worship Center. One of the premier quilt shows in northeastern Indiana. 9 am-4 pm. Cost: $5. 260-4990149. edenwc@hotmail.com. edenworshipcenter.com/ quiltshow
20
WINE IN THE PINES & ANIMAL ART AUCTION, Albion (Noble), Black Pine Animal Sanctuary. Adults-only evening with the animals. Explore, view animal artists, sample wines and appetizers. 5:30-9 pm. Cost: $40-$50. 260-636-7383. lori@ blackpine.org. blackpine.org
SOUTHEAST
13 PHOTO CREDIT: HAMILTON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
910
CAMPBELLSBURG COUNTRY FESTIVAL, Campbellsburg (Washington), Campbellsburg Park. Music, vendors, contests, truck and tractor pulls, parade, kids’ games and activities. Free. 812-896-7979. campbellsburgcountryfestival.com. ART ON THE PARISH GREEN, New Albany (Floyd), Downtown. Festival showcasing over 90 artists. Music, children’s art activities, food and more. Sat: 10 am-6 pm, Sun: 11:30-5 pm. Free. 812-944-0413. info@ artontheparishgreen.com. artontheparishgreen.org.
2223
BLUEGRASS ON THE SQUARE, Corydon (Harrison), Downtown Square. Enjoy bluegrass music as Corydon comes alive this summer! Bring your lawn chairs or blanket. 4-8 pm. Free. 888-738-2137. thisisindiana. 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.
JUNE 2018
27
Where asparagus once grew wild
outdoors
B Y JACK S PAU L D IN G
When one of us spied our prized quarry,
kle them with sea salt. About 15 minutes
O
we would holler … Mom would stop the
or so in the oven at 350 F produces an
old Ford, and we would scramble out of
amazing side dish for any meal.
ne of my fond experiences as a child came with the first warming days of spring. Prior
to cultivated side ditches, mowed fence rows and the liberal use of herbicides, wild asparagus proliferated in the side
the car and into the side ditch to gather the stalks. As the warm spring weather continued, the stalks of asparagus became more mature and taller.
ditches along the county roads. And it
At this point, we stopped using the par-
was free for the picking!
ing knife and opted to simply bend the
The sporadic patches took root from stray seeds dropped by birds feeding on the seeds from nearby gardens. Once sprouted, the hearty plant would mature
stalk to snap the top off. When the tops are snapped off like this, it guarantees a soft, chewable spear when the asparagus hits the plate.
and seed and produce more plants in a
On a good run, we might fill two large
growing cluster.
paper grocery bags with the succulent
I remember loading up with Mom and
stalks. What a haul!
my sister Mary in the old family station
Usually the spears were boiled in salted
wagon armed with paper grocery bags
water, drained and liberally coated
and paring knives.
with butter when prepared for the ta-
Once we were out of town, the hunt would begin. Mom would slowly idle the old Ford down the county roads at a
ble. Truth be known: As a boy, I appreciated the hunt a whole lot more than actually eating the asparagus.
snail’s pace while my sister and I stuck
A few years ago, I spotted a lone
our heads out of the car windows and
patch of the velvety looking ma-
scanned the ditches for the dark green
ture plants along a county road
spears of asparagus.
near home. I hadn’t seen any wild
“
On a good run, we might fill two large paper grocery bags with the succulent stalks. What a haul!
28
JUNE 2018
”
asparagus in years. I made a mental note to come back the following spring to see if I could pick just a few spears. The next year, I was disappointed to find even the last patch had disappeared under the onslaught of a tractor mounted mower. My wife and I have a favorite recipe for our garden asparagus. We wash and dry the stalks, lay them on a cookie sheet, drizzle the stalks with a little virgin olive oil and sprin-
I can’t help but wonder, though, how wild asparagus would taste if fixed this way. JACK SPAULDING is a state outdoors writer and a consumer of RushShelby Energy living along the Flatrock River in Moscow. Readers with questions or comments can write to him in care of Electric Consumer or email jackspaulding@hughes.net.
safety
Electrical rules TO SHARE WITH KIDS
IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO TEACH YOUR KIDS ABOUT DANGERS OF ELECTRICITY Born with a natural curiosity, children are always exploring, asking questions and trying new things to understand the world around them. Unfortunately, that curiosity can be dangerous – and even deadly – when it comes to electricity. “There are 400 deaths and 4,400 injuries from electrical hazards each year,” said Tom VanParis, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives. “Education and adult supervision are the main ways to help reduce your child’s risk of an electrical accident.” With summer break just beginning, children of all ages will spend the next few months entertaining themselves. Whether they are keeping cool inside or soaking up some vitamin D outside, they are bound to run into trouble. Your cooperative, though, wants to be sure they are safe from electrical hazards. Keep your children safe by teaching them the rules of outdoor and indoor electrical safety.
OUTDOOR ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES: • Do not climb trees near power lines or climb utility poles, transmission towers or fences around electrical substations. • Keep electrical cords away from water. • Never touch an electrical pole or wire that has fallen to the ground. • Watch out for thunderstorms! If you
It is also important for children to know how to avoid electrical dangers, but also how to respond to an electrical injury. The most important rule is to never touch a victim who is still connected to a power source. The same current could travel to their bodies and injure
can hear thunder, you can be struck by
them as well. If they can,
lightning.
either unplug or turn off
INDOOR ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES: • Do not overload an extension cord with too many plugs. • Teach older kids how to safely plug in and unplug cords. • Remind children that water and electricity do not mix. • For younger children, install safety caps on outlets.
Do you have young children at home? Install safety caps on outlets.
the switch to the power supply. Inform children to never touch a live wire, even if it does not look dangerous. Lastly, be sure they know how to call 911 in an emergency if they ever need help. If you have questions about keeping your family safe from electrical hazards, contact your electric cooperative. Help keep your children safe, wherever they are, by applying a few safety rules to their summer routine. JU NE 2 018
29
Top crop
Tomatoes: the apples of most eyes by B. Rosie Lerner
M
ost gardeners would agree that tomatoes are the most popular crop for home growing. But
what gardeners can’t agree on is what tomato is considered “the best,” since taste is such a personal matter.
garden. Midseason is considered to be 66 to 80 days. Late types are those that need more than 80 days from transplanting. Third, you can group tomatoes by the plant’s growth habit: determinate or indeterminate. Determinate plants tend to grow their foliage first, then set flowers that mature into fruit if pollination is
The diversity of cultivars available makes
successful. All of the fruit tend to ripen
it easy for anyone to grow tomatoes —
on a plant at about the same time. Inde-
even if all you have is a pot on the patio.
terminate tomatoes start out by growing
The Burpee Seed Company introduced
some foliage, then continue to produce
the first F1 hybrid tomato “Big Boy” in
foliage and flowers throughout the
1949. Since then, plant breeders have in-
gardening season. These plants will tend
troduced thousands of hybrid tomatoes.
to have tomato fruit in different stages
Modern hybrids bring disease resistance,
of maturity at any given time once they
cold tolerance, nematode resistance, and
start to set fruit.
hybrid vigor as well as a dazzling range of colors, shapes, and sizes.
More recent developments in tomato breeding have led to a wider array of fruit
There are several ways to classify the
colors. In addition to the standard red ripe
wide array of tomatoes that are so pop-
color, tomatoes can be creamy white, lime
ular among gardeners today. First, you
green, purple or nearly black. Pink and
can group them by fruit size and shape.
yellowish types have mistakenly been re-
From small to large, there are: currant,
ferred to as low-acid tomatoes, but in fact,
cherry/grape, salad/cocktail, plum, pear,
these types are just higher in sugar, which
standard slicing, and beefsteak types.
makes them taste less acidic.
Second, you can group tomatoes by the
All tomatoes are warm-season crops that
amount of time it takes for the plants to
thrive when soil temperature is at least 60
mature fruit for harvest. Seed packets will
F which meant this spring required extra
list the expected length of time to ma-
patience with late, cooler than usual soil
turity in number of days, but in general,
temperatures. But the old saying about
cultivars are classified as: early, midsea-
good things coming to those who wait is
son, or late-maturing. Early cultivars take
true for tomatoes — whichever cultivars
55 to 65 days from transplanting to the
and colors you choose to grow.
30
JUNE 2018
Ask Rosie
P H OTO P R OV ID E D B Y R OSI E LERNER, PURDUE EXTENSI O N
Q: I have a
maple tree that has a rather large sucker at the bottom. The diameter of the sucker is about 2 inches, and the tree trunk is 7 inches in diameter. I would like to know if it is OK to remove it? J.M., Crown Point, Indiana
A: Some landscape plants produce
vigorous, upright stems that become troublesome, because they out-compete better-formed branches and shade out the rest of the plant. These remarkably fast-growing, upright stems are called “suckers” if they come from the root system. The best time to try removing these suckers is late winter and early spring before the new growth begins. You’ll want to be careful to avoid injuring the main trunk when you cut. First, remove the top of the root sucker (this can be done in stages) to get the heavy weight off that stem. Then, make closer cuts further down to just above where you see the “V.” We also recommend that you pull the rock mulch away from the base of the tree and, if needed, remove any soil that is covering the root collar (the flare of the trunk at the bottom.) (You can see an illustration of these recommendations on the annotated photo, courtesy of Purdue Urban Forestry Specialist Lindsey Purcell, with this column at ElectricConsumer.org. B. ROSIE LERNER is the Purdue Extension consumer horticulturist and is a consumer of Tipmont REMC. Questions about gardening issues may be sent to “Ask Rosie,” Electric Consumer, P.O. Box 24517, Indianapolis, IN 46224; or use our “Talk to Us” form online at ElectricConsumer.org.
PHO TO BY J. M
backyard
ADVERTISEMENT
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Those with terrible arthritis in their hands and fingers, love how easy Apeaz™ is to open. The jar fits in the palm of the hand, which makes it much easier to use.
Instant Pain Relief Without a Prescription Many Apeaz™ users report significant improvements in daily aches and pain. Many more report increased flexibility and less stiffness. They are moving with less pain for the first time in years, like Henry Esber, an early user of Apeaz™. “I’ve tried more pills than I can count. I’ve also had a handful of cortisone shots. Nothing is as effective as this product. With Apeaz™, I get relief right away. I rub a little on my hands. It keeps the pain away. It also prevents the pain from getting really bad. It’s completely changed my life.”
Apeaz™ is an FDA drug with approved claims for the pain relief of the following conditions: • Arthritis pain • Simple back pain • Strains • Sprains • Athletic injuries • Muscle stiffness/ pain • Wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, foot, muscle or joint pain
Works In Minutes
How It Works
For arthritis suffers, Apeaz offers impressive advantages over traditional medications. The most obvious is how quickly it relieves pain discomfort. The cream contains the maximum approved OTC dose of a top anesthetic, which penetrates the skin in a matter of minutes to numb the area that’s in pain. This relief lasts for several hours. Published pre-clinical animal studies have shown that the ingredients in Apeaz™ can also prevent further bone and cartilage destruction. There are also no negative side effects like from oral medication. Apeaz™ delivers its ingredients through the skin. Oral medications are absorbed in the digestive tract. Overtime, the chemicals in pills can tear the delicate lining of the stomach, causing ulcers and bleeding. When compared to other arthritis medications, Apeaz™ is a fraction of the cost. At less than $2 a day, the cream quickly is becoming a household name.
Apeaz contains the highest, non-prescription OTC dose of a medical compound that fights pain on contact. When applied to the skin it goes to work within minutes by penetrating right to the source of your pain, numbing the nerve endings. “This is why Apeaz™ is so effective for people with arthritis pain. It reduces pain while adding an additional potential layer of joint support,” explains Damaj.
™
™
A New Way to Treat Pain Although Dr. Damaj and his team say that their cream is the fastest and most effective way to relieve arthritis pain, they believe there is still a reason to take joint pills. The most effective are those which help to further lubricate, strengthen and support the joints. That’s why every container of Apeaz™ comes with ArthriVarx™, a breakthrough supplement that’s taking on joint support in an entirely new way.
Apeaz™: Quick Acting Pain and Arthritis Cream is Now Available Without a Prescription
ArthriVarx™ works on your joints, making it the perfect companion to Apeaz™. “ArthriVarx™ contains special compounds published to lubricate the joints and connective tissues that surrounds them. With daily use, they improve joint health and can give an extra cushion,” explains Dr. Damaj. “When combined with Apeaz™, it becomes the perfect system to tackle arthritis. While the anesthetic component of Apeaz™ is working on the outside, relieving pain on contact, ArthriVarx™ is working on the inside, adding cushioning to the joints”’
A Powerful Combination For Arthritis and Joint Pain With daily use, Apeaz™ plus ArthriVarx™ helps users live a more vital, pain free life without any of the negative side effects or interactions associated with oral drugs. By delivering fast, long-lasting, and targeted relief from joint pain and supporting longterm joint health, Apeaz™ and ArthriVarx™ is the newest, most effective way to tackle your arthritis pain. You can now enjoy an entirely new level of comfort that’s both safe and affordable. It is also extremely effective, especially if nothing else has worked well for you.
How to Get Apeaz™ This is the first official public release of Apeaz™. In order to get the word out about Apeaz™, 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 1-800-451-7702 and will only be open while supplies last. Experience the guaranteed Apeaz™ relief already enjoyed by thousands of consumers. Don’t miss out, call 1-800-451-7702 today.
APEAZ IS AN FDA OTC COMPLIANT DRUG NDC # 57483-001-04 APPROVED FOR THE RELIEF OF PAIN FROM MUSCLES AND JOINTS INCLUDING ARTHRITIS PAIN. ARTHRIVARX STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FDA. ARTHRIVARX IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE AND IS NOT A DRUG. RESULTS MAY VARY. OFFER NOT AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS OF IOWA.
Hoosier Energy news Your energy producer is a co-op, too! Hoosier Energy is a generation and transmission (G&T) cooperative providing wholesale electric power and services to your electric cooperative. Founded in 1949 and based in Bloomington, the power producer generates power from coal, natural gas and renewable energy resources. The G&T delivers power through nearly 1,700 miles of transmission lines on the electric grid.
Generating power from the wind Hoosier Energy purchases energy generated from the wind at farms in Indiana, Iowa and Illinois. The turbine generators capture the kinetic energy of the wind and convert it into electricity.
Output from these wind farms is enough to power 21,000 homes. For more information about Hoosier Energy’s generation sources, log onto hoosierenergy.com/about/ energy-strategy.
How energy is transmitted to your home
Power generation Generating energy from a diverse set of fuel sources is an important part of the power supply portfolio, including wind power purchase agreements.
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Switching substation After leaving a power plant, electricity feeds into a substation that raises or “steps up” the voltage – similar to increasing water pressure.
Transmission Electricity generated by Hoosier Energy and other utilities is placed on a regional grid and transmitted at highvoltage over long distances throughout central and southern Indiana and southeastern Illinois.
Distribution substation
Energy to your cooperative
These stations lower the voltage before being sent along to your local electric cooperative.
At this phase, your electric cooperative distributes and meters the energy you use at your home or business.
Bird’vsiew eye
profile
I
n Indiana, a land where annual obsessions called March Madness and Hoosier Hysteria thankfully bring us
nothing but net, it comes as no surprise that Electric Consumer readers’ pick for favorite Famous Hoosier would be a king of the basketball court. Larry Bird, the “Hick from French Lick,” who rose from humble beginnings to college and pro basketball superstardom, is not only a sports icon; he’s a true example of the Hoosier work ethic. “I’ve got a theory that if you give 100 percent all of the time, somehow things will work out in the end,” he once said. For Bird, now 61, that theory helped put him in NBA record books. He’s the only person in professional basketball history to be named Rookie of the Year (197980, Boston Celtics), Regular Season MVP (three times between 1983 and 1986), Finals MVP (1984 and 1986), Coach of the Year (1997-98, Indiana Pacers) and Executive of the Year (2011-12, Indiana Pacers). As a player, he led the Indiana State University Sycamores to the final game of the 1979 NCAA championship and then, as a professional, led the Boston Celtics to two NBA championships. He played on the celebrated 1992 Olympic gold-medal-winning “Dream Team.” As a coach, he steered the Indiana Pacers to a berth in the 2000 NBA Finals. He retired from the coaching position after the end of the 2000 season, returning as the Pacers’ president of basketball operations in 2003. In 2012, Bird left the Pacers, only to return a year later as president of basketball operations. He served in that capacity until May 2017, and now
P HO TO CO URTESY O F THE I NDI ANA PACERS
PLEASE TURN TO THE NEXT PAGE JUNE 2018
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profile CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE maintains an advisory role within the Pacers organization. We asked Bird about his Electric Consumer honor, his roots, his career and the game that has been his life. See what “Larry Legend” had to say.
Q: Electric Consumer readers from
Are you surprised by the changes and growth in the area over the past 20 years?
A: I’m really surprised. It’s beautiful in Southern Indiana and the changes the state — have been for the good and, hopefully, will continue.
Q: What exactly is your role as advisor
favorite “Famous Hoosier.” Why do you
to the president of basketball operations
think your fellow Hoosiers so easily
for the Indiana Pacers?
identify with you and “root” for you?
A: I do scouting, discuss direction of
I grew up in a small town in South-
you do anything differently?
A: I would not have tried to play through so many injuries. I would have had them taken care of.
— helping one of the poorest parts of
across Indiana chose you as their
A:
Q: Looking back on your career, would
team of team and stay in touch with
Q: What’s left on your bucket list? A: Seeing the Pacers win a championship, whether I’m involved or not.
Q: What’s the best advice you were ever given?
A: As for basketball, no matter how much or how long you practice, no mat-
ern Indiana. After my background
(President of Basketball Operations)Kevin
ter how many shots you put up, someone
was written about during my career at
(Pritchard). He makes all the decisions.
is doing more.
we had there and the school not being a
Q: You’ve been a college and pro
basketball power, and the state’s love of
basketball standout, an Olympian, a
Q: What’s the best advice you ever
basketball, I think it all came together.
coach and a Pacers executive. What has
Indiana State, along with the success
Then when I came back to coach the Pacers and then to run the basketball side, it kind of stacked up on top of my early career.
Q: How does growing up in rural Indiana play a part in your daily life?
A: It keeps you humble. I loved growing up there and think about it often.
Q: Your hometown of French Lick and its neighbor West Baden have continually been recognized because of the resorts and the golf courses and nearby Patoka Lake for recreation.
FUN FACTS ABOUT LARRY BIRD • The bright blue Twitter logo is named “Larry” after Larry Bird. Turns out
been the highlight of your career? Why?
A: Winning championships, competing these things, to win.
Q: If you were 40 years younger, playing college or pro basketball now, do you think you’d be as successful — or more successful? Would you want to be playing ball now?
A: That’s hard to say, but I think I would
Q: The Pacers had a fabulous season this year, making it to the playoffs. What’s been your takeaway from this season?
A: It was very pleasing. I liked how the team stayed together, I liked the leadership from a number of our guys and I liked how they competed every night.
succeed.
on the Broadway stage in the play
talking; one of his early jobs was picking
“Magic/Bird.” The play failed to attract
up trash back home in French Lick.
acclaim or an audience. It ran for just
Back in 1974, after dropping out of
one month in the spring 2012.
Indiana University and West Baden’s
canceled, Bird was named NBA
led the Boston Celtics to two NBA
Executive of the Year. He was the first
championships.
person to win NBA’s Triple Crown: best
JUNE 2018
should be listening.
for the game and I put in the work to
Boston and he grew up when Bird
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used it: Don’t always be talking when you
be successful because I did have talent
• Four days after “Magic/Bird” was
Bird and Magic Johnson was captured
A: I was told this when I was 10, but I’ve
for championships. That’s why you do
Twitter’s co-founder Biz Stone is from
• The rivalry and friendship between
gave?
player, coach and executive. • Not only is Bird known for his trash
Northwood Institute, Bird got a job with his hometown’s street department, driving a garbage truck and doing maintenance and road repair work. He did that for nine months before returning to college, this time Indiana State University. The rest is history.