Infrastructure and your utility bill.
Kankakee Valley 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
FROM THE CEO:
Infrastructure and your electric bill www.kvremc.com CONTACT US Toll Free: 800-552-2622 Local: 219-733-2511 OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. Central Time Monday-Friday STREET ADDRESS 8642 W. U.S. Highway 30 Wanatah, IN 46390 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 157, Wanatah, IN 46390 EMERGENCY POWER OUTAGES To report a power outage, please call 800-552-2622. We are available to serve you 24 hours a day. When calling, please provide the name in which your account is listed. Also, please be sure to check your fuses or breakers. KANKAKEE VALLEY REMC STAFF Scott Sears, Chief Executive Officer Lori Young, Executive Assistant Angie Swanson, Office Manager Josh Pepple, Director of Operations Amanda Steeb, Communications and Marketing Director Dave Howell, Purchasing and Facilities Manager Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/KVREMC
When you
use. The facilities charge is a flat
hear the word
amount, no matter how much or how
“infrastructure”,
little electricity is used. That’s because
you might think of
we have to maintain and operate
roads, water lines
that system 365 days a year. Even if
or even buildings.
you generate part of your electricity
Regardless of
through a solar array or wind turbine,
the industry,
your home is connected to our
including your electric cooperative,
system, and we have to keep those
infrastructure is essential.
connections operating safely.
Did you realize part of your monthly
While our costs of doing business
electric bill is all about infrastructure,
have increased over the years, the
too? When you look at your bill, the
last time we adjusted the facilities
first line item is a “facilities charge.”
charge was in 2009. Unlike for-profit
The name can be a little confusing
utilities, your REMC is a not-for-profit
because most people think of facilities
cooperative, so we don’t want to
as roads or buildings. To an electric
charge more than we need to cover
power co-op like Kankakee Valley
our costs. Having a facilities charge
REMC, “facilities” refers to everything
gives us a predictable source of funds
needed to bring electricity from the
to cover our overhead — all the costs
power grid to your home or business.
that keep your electricity available
That’s everything from the wires,
when you need it.
power poles, and substations, to the controls keeping the flow of electricity safe and reliable, to our fleet of service trucks and the administration of the co-op. The co-ops power costs go up and down depending on the amount of electricity our member-consumers
Don’t miss out on the latest news and information from your cooperative. Be sure to follow Kankakee Valley REMC on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Over the next few months, we’ll give you more insight into the many ways Kankakee Valley REMC works to keep your electricity affordable.
SCOTT SEARS CEO
CORRECTION Last month we published an article titled “Things to Consider Before Buying An EV”. Within the article, we misprinted the Time of Use rate for on-peak and off-peak use. The correct cost for the Time of Use rate for off-peak charging is $0.0598, and $0.365 for on-peak between the hours of 4-7 p.m., CDT. To read the updated article, visit the news section under the resource tab at kvremc.com.
SEPTEMBER 2021
5
Crews in the Community Your KV REMC crews are working to deliver safe and reliable electricity to your home and business. In this section, we will provide you details on particular projects and areas of focus this month.
FIBER LOOP PROJECT Last
month, our contractors completed Phase 1 of the fiber loop project. Construction on Phase 2 has begun. Optical Cross-Connect cabinets are now located near KV REMC substations. These cabinets are similar to many others you may see along the road. They are a big part of the infrastructure required to complete our fiber optics loop.
FIBER MAKE READY Kankakee
Valley REMC crews will be performing system improvement requirements in preparation for attaching fiber optics lines to the electric poles. This work includes maintenance and the replacement of poles when necessary.
LINE CONSTRUCTION As part of our
continuous commitment to service and safety, our contract crews will be rebuilding sections of line in the Porter County area near Lakes of the Four Seasons. The line rebuilds are necessary in preparation for the upgrade to the Porter substation. These locations include: • 675 W. north of 250 S. • 725 W. north of 250 S. • 275 S. west of 725 W.
FOUR SUBSTATIONS TO BE UPGRADED KV REMC is focused on meeting our
on the circuits feeding out of Jacob
member-consumers’ needs today and
Mack and the replacement of the
in the future. Providing safe, reliable
current power transformers at Morgan,
and affordable power will always
Oregon and Whispering Pines with
be our highest priority. To do this
ones that have higher load capacities.
requires maintaining overhead and
While completing the work, we will
underground power lines, poles and
do our best to minimize disruption
other infrastructure, like substations.
to your electrical service. We will
To meet the growing electrical needs of our membership and area growth,
necessary for the safety of our crews.
often requires upgrading or building
As we look ahead, we will continue
a new substation. This year your
to focus on improvements to our
cooperative will be upgrading four
distribution system. In addition to
of its ten substations. These include
the substation upgrades to increase
Morgan Substation located in Morgan
capacity, your cooperative will be
Township/Porter County, Whispering
looking to implement smart grid
Pines Substation located in Fish Lake/
projects to help modernize our portion
LaPorte County, Oregon Substation
of the electrical grid. This will allow us
located east of Hamlet/Starke County
to engage in emerging technologies to
and Jacob Mack Substation east of
move your cooperative forward.
Winfield, Porter County. The upgrades will include installing larger conductors
6 SEPTEMBER 2021
communicate to you if an outage is
OPERATION ROUND UP
Committed To The Community KV REMC’s commitment to the community is demonstrated through the work of both its employees and membership. Operation Round Up is one way we can work together to support area non-profits and make a difference in the community. Recently, Operation Round Up awarded three deserving organizations grants to support programs and projects that directly impact our families, neighbors and friends. LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra received a $3,000 grant to support the 2021 Children’s Concert. This three-day children’s educational concert is presented to 6,000 students from LaPorte Community Schools and surrounding area school corporations, senior living centers and other
Kankakee Valley REMC Director of Marketing and Communications Amanda Steeb (left) presents a grant check to Caleb Hoppe. He is joined by brother Carson and parents Seth and Andrea, founders of iCaleb & Company.
agencies. With a mission of enriching people’s lives through the experience of live orchestral performances and cultural engagement, LaPorte County Symphony is recognized for performing the most successful
Since iCaleb & Company’s inception eight years ago, it has given away over 375 iPads. South Central School
children’s concert in the nation.
Corporation received a $2,099.40
iCaleb & Company received a
radios for the corporation. With
$1,000 grant to purchase iPads for kids undergoing cancer treatment in Northern Indiana. The iPads provide education and entertainment to help children stay connected with family during treatment and pass the time during extended hospital stays.
grant to purchase digital two-way safety as a number one priority within schools, effective communication is critical. The new digital radios will replace the analog ones used in everyday operations.
MEMBER APPRECIATION DAY/ ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING UPDATE At press time, the Kankakee Valley REMC Member Appreciation Day / Annual Business Meeting hasn’t yet taken place. We will publish a recap of the event along with an introduction of your fellow memberconsumers elected to the board of directors in the October Indiana Connection magazine.
SEPTEMBER 2021
7
United Way Day of Caring
Co-Op Employees Give Back Electric cooperatives have a proud
organizations with some of the
history of giving back. Our concern
more time-consuming basic
for the community is a significant
housekeeping and maintenance
part of who we are and is reflected
tasks, freeing them to focus on what
in how we engage with our local
matters most, serving their clients.
communities.
“Kankakee Valley REMC is
This year, your cooperative’s
guided by values that support the
employees volunteered during
community and allow us the ability
United Way Day of Caring, joining
to work with others to improve
400 area volunteers to give back to
the quality of life for all residents,”
non-profits and make a difference
stated Scott Sears, CEO for KV
in the community. This event is the
REMC. “Through the collaborated
largest volunteerism celebration in
efforts of all volunteers, we are
Northwest Indiana.
providing support and hope for the
On Friday, Aug. 6, KV REMC
community.”
employees spent the day lending
To see more photos of our
a hand to Family House, Jacobs
employees during United
Ladder and Reins of Life. Our
Way Day of Caring, visit the
mission for the day was simple.
Kankakee Valley REMC YouTube
We wanted to assist these
page.
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
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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.
16
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
pets
SIGNS THAT THERE MAY BE A HEALTH PROBLEM Have your pet checked out by its veterinarian right away if you notice any of these symptoms. They could be signs of a serious health problem.
Don’t ignore your pet’s dental health
T
•
Bad breath
•
Broken or loose teeth
•
Teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar
•
Abnormal chewing, drooling or dropping food from the mouth
•
Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
•
Pain in or around the mouth
aking care of your teeth may
of dental problems. Remember to be
•
Bleeding from the mouth
be part of YOUR daily routine,
very careful when evaluating your
but do you also give your pet’s
pet’s mouth because even the gentlest
•
Swelling in the areas surrounding
choppers that same kind of care?
critter may bite if it is in pain.
You should.
Although cavities are less common
Just as it is for humans, dental health
in pets than in people, pets can have
is important to your pet’s overall
many of the dental problems that we
the mouth
WHY BRUSHING IS IMPORTANT Regularly brushing your pet’s teeth is the most effective way to keep its teeth
health. Dental issues can lead to — or
can develop:
be a sign of — other health problems.
•
Broken teeth and roots
These problems can potentially
•
Periodontal disease
able to reduce the frequency or even
•
Abscesses or infected teeth
eliminate the need for periodic dental
•
Cysts or tumors in the mouth
•
Malocclusion or misalignment of
damage not only your pet’s teeth and gums but its internal organs as well. Because your pet can’t communicate internal pains and problems, your pet’s teeth and gums should be examined at least once a year by its veterinarian.
the teeth and bite •
Broken (fractured) jaw
healthy between dental cleanings. By brushing its teeth at home, you may be
cleaning by your pet’s veterinarian. Daily brushing is best but since it’s not always possible, try to at least brush several times a week. Though most dogs are fine with “brushing time,” cats can be a bit more resistant. Patience
During the examination, X-rays may
and training are important.
the jaw and the tooth roots below the
PERIODONTAL DISEASE IS COMMON IN CATS AND DOGS
gumline. Thorough dental cleanings
By the time your pet is 3 years old, it will likely have some early evidence
GET VETERINARIAN RECOMMENDATIONS
of periodontal disease. Since it will
There are many products that claim
worsen as your pet grows older if
to improve pets’ dental health. Not all
effective preventive measures aren’t
of them are effective. Talk with your
taken, early detection and treatment
pet’s veterinarian about any dental
are critical. Though periodontal
products, treats or dental-specific
HOW TO TELL IF YOUR PET HAS DENTAL ISSUES
disease may start in your pet’s
diets that you’re considering for
mouth, it could lead to kidney, liver
your pet or ask for the veterinarian’s
Has your pet become irritable? Is its
and heart changes.
recommendation.
be needed to evaluate the health of
and evaluations are performed under general anesthesia. This lessens your pet’s stress and pain, and allows for a more successful cleaning and X-ray experience.
behavior “off?” These may be signs
26
SEPTEMBER 2021
SOURCE: American Veterinary Medical Association
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
Wabash Valley Power news
IT’S YOUR BUSINESS
Your electricity is delivered by member-owned co-ops – and that powers how we operate
No matter your job, a business
As a member of your local electric
FINANCIAL DECISIONS ARE MADE WITH YOU IN
cooperative, you are actually an
MIND. The
owner (a member-consumer)
programs
of the organization! Electric
offered by
cooperatives sprang up across
your local
the U.S. in the 1930s as towns
electric
and cities across the nation
co-op are
gained access to electricity. The
created
Rural Electrification Act in 1936
based on
provided a way for residents in
what is in
a community to join together
the best
and gain low interest loans to
interest of
create a member-owned electric
the co-op’s
cooperative. Today, more than
member-
and businesses, we also plan
three dozen electric cooperatives
consumers. Your co-op offers
with you in mind: our power
power communities across
Power Moves® rebates for energy
supply portfolio features diverse
Indiana. You benefit from being
efficiency upgrades, which can
resources to safeguard against
a member-consumer of your
lower your long-term energy
price volatility for any particular
local electric cooperative in
costs. Your local electric co-op
resource. In the past few years,
multiple ways:
may even retire patronage – the
we’ve added more alternative
co-op’s equivalent of profits –
energy sources such as wind and
which are returned to members
solar, as they have become more
as financial conditions allow.
competitive compared to other
The financial benefits stay in
energy sources. This is done to
your community – not given as
ensure you receive affordable,
dividends to shareholders far
reliable energy.
owner lives in your house: you!
YOU HAVE DIRECT SAY IN HOW YOUR CO-OP OPERATES. Each year, each local electric co-op hosts an annual meeting that includes the election of cooperative members to the organization’s board of directors. The directors
away.
You can visit your co-op’s
are elected by fellow co-op
WE’RE A CO-OP OF CO-OPS! Wabash
website to learn more, including
member-consumers; they are not
Valley Power Alliance was created
about your co-op’s history
shareholders located in an office
by member co-ops and is owned
and programs available to the
somewhere far away. You may
by the 23 cooperatives it serves
community. And the next time
even personally know some of the
in Indiana, Illinois and Missouri.
you flip on the light switch, you
members of your co-op’s board!
And as a cooperative serving
can do so knowing that you are
more than 321,000 families
part owner of the cooperative
30
powering your day! SEPTEMBER 2021