Boone Power - April 2026 Indiana Connection

Camp Kilowatt applications due on May 1

LINEMAN legacy

Two generations of the Taylor family are helping keep north central Indiana’s lights on PAGES 16A-D

Geothermal isn’t just about comfort. It’s about energy independence, grid resilience, and good jobs.

Geothermal heating and cooling doesn’t just make homes more comfortable and efficient— they’re powered by a domestic, underground energy source that’s available 24/7, rain or shine.

Made in the USA: Our geothermal systems are built right here in America, supporting advanced manufacturing jobs.

Grid-friendly: While AI, EVs, and data centers push power demand to new heights, geothermal helps reduce peak load—easing the burden on our utilities.

Job-creating: From HVAC contractors and well drillers or trenchers to engineers and architects, geothermal supports a wide network of high-paying, skilled jobs in every community it touches.

Geothermal isn’t just smart for homeowners. It’s smart for the country.

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Wallpe Htg & Clg (812) 663-7252 wallpegeothermal.com

Indianapolis Masters Htg & Clg by Van Valer, Inc. (317) 881-9074 mastersingeothermal.com

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Laotto

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Waterloo Gibson’s Htg & Plbg, Inc. (888) 754-1668 gibsonsgeothermal.com

Westfield Precision Comfort Systems, Inc. (317) 867-2665 precisioncomfort.com

West Lafayette Blue Fox Htg & Clg (765) 252-0051 bluefoxhvac.com

from the editor

A fondness for our state parks

In this month’s feature story, we highlight Indiana’s great state parks. We’re lucky to have 24 state parks spread throughout the state. These parks offer plenty of green spaces and a variety of outdoor activities for every kind of Hoosier. They are also affordable to visit.

Growing up, I was fortunate to live close to McCormick’s Creek State Park in Spencer, Indiana. The park was the location of many family picnics and reunions at various shelter houses, as well as outdoor adventures for my Girl Scout troop (Troop 595 forever). In high school, my friends and I would often spend long afternoons at McCormick’s Creek, walking the trails and trying to squeeze through the narrow caverns of Wolf Cave. You couldn’t beat getting a car full of teenagers into the park for under $10.

Turkey Run State Park was the site of a notorious family trip in which we unintentionally chose one of the toughest trails for a walk through the woods. My cousins and I were all 10 or younger at the time. My grandpa later claimed he thought we would never make it out. If any of you have experienced the ladder trail there, you understand his concern.

The Indiana Dunes are also close to my heart. I have a friend whose family is from Chesterton, and we took many summer trips to visit them and spend time at the beach. The dunes are amazing in person, and I encourage you to make the trip north to see them yourself.

I still have many state parks to visit, but I hope to see all 24 someday. Which one is your favorite? Send me an email and tell me why at bdavis@indianaec.org

Britt Davis Editor bdavis@indianaec.org

On the menu: July: Submit your favorite bread recipes, deadline May 1. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Giveaway: Enter to win a $50 annual entrance pass, courtesy of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Visit indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests or send your contact information to the address below. The deadline to enter is April 30.

Three ways to contact us: To send us recipes, photos, letters, and entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website indianaconnection.org; email info@indianaconnection.org; or send to Indiana Connection, 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032.

VOLUME 75 • NUMBER 10 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 320,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership. The average printed and mailed cost per issue is 54 cents.

CONTACT US: 11805 Pennsylvania Street Carmel, IN 46032

317-487-2220

info@indianaconnection.org IndianaConnection.org

INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS: Dr. Richard Leeper President

Jamey Marcum Vice President

Melissa Menchhofer Secretary/Treasurer

John Cassady CEO

EDITORIAL STAFF:

Britt Davis Editor

Mandy Barth Vice President of Communication

Lauren Carman Communication Manager

Ashley Curry Production and Design Coordinator

Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist

Amber Knight Creative Manager

Kiley Lipps Graphic Designer

ADVERTISING:

American MainStreet Publications Cheryl Solomon, local ad representative; 512-441-5200; amp.coop

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 safekeeping 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, Indiana, and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER:

Send change of address to: Indiana Connection, 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032. Include key number.

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

CONTACT US

800-897-7362

WEBSITE

boonepower.com

EMAIL contactus@boonepower.com

OFFICE HOURS

7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

STREET ADDRESS 1207 Indianapolis Ave.

Lebanon, IN 46052

MAILING ADDRESS

P.O. Box 563

Lebanon, IN 46052

POWER OUTAGES

The easiest way to report a power outage is on the SmartHub mobile app.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

District 1 — W. Daniel Lawson

District 2 — Thomas E. Dull

District 3 — Mark Gruninger

District 4 — Brian Gott

District 5 — Jon Stevens

District 6 — Alan D. Cragun

District 7 — Bruce Guernsey

District 8 — Mark Starkey

District 9 — Noel R. Kendall

READ ONLINE!

Find a digital flipbook version of the magazine on the SmartHub mobile app or on our website.

Follow us on social media for energy-saving tips and important updates and reminders.

Camp Kilowatt applications due on May 1

SIXTH GRADERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY!

Applications for Camp Kilowatt are still being accepted! Interested sixth graders whose households receive electricity from Boone Power should submit their applications by May 1.

Camp Kilowatt combines traditional summer camp activities like swimming, archery, canoeing, and horseback riding with energy education and electrical safety. The camp takes place July 26-29 at Happy Hollow Children’s Camp in Nashville, Indiana.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity, sponsored by Boone Power and other Indiana electric cooperatives, to make new friends, have fun, and explore more about energy.

Visit CampKilowatt.org for details and to apply.

To learn more about the Camp Kilowatt experience from the students sponsored by Boone Power who attended in 2025, check out the February Indiana Connection magazine at boonepower.com/ indiana-connection-magazine .

Do you have an electric vehicle?

If you currently own an electric vehicle or if you purchase one, please let us know. As more members buy EVs, it’s helpful to know where they’re located in our area so we can ensure we have the necessary infrastructure in place to meet charging needs and provide reliable power to our local homes and businesses.

Additionally, Boone Power is working on establishing a time-of-use pilot rate option. Because EV owners can benefit from using off-peak hours for charging, we plan to reach out directly to our known EV owners when we’re ready to accept sign-ups for the timeof-use rate pilot program.

You can fill out the EV form on our website at boonepower.com/electricvehicles or call us at 800-897-7362.

If you are considering purchasing an EV, we recommend reading information from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center at afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/electric The site provides an overview of the various types of electric vehicles, maintenance, tax incentives, safety information, and more.

REMINDER: VOTING OPEN THROUGH APRIL 21

2026 Board of Directors Election

Director candidate bios were printed in the March Indiana Connection, and are available on the voting website and at boonepower.com/2026-annual-meeting . Voting closes at 1 p.m. on April 21. Members have the following options for participating in the 2026 election.

Email: All members for whom we have an email address were sent an email on March 17 with a direct link to cast their vote online.

SmartHub: During the voting period, you’ll find a “VOTE NOW” button from the SmartHub mobile app and web portal.

Mail: If you would like a paper ballot mailed to you, you can request one by calling our office at 800-897-7362 during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.4:30 p.m.) or completing a form at boonepower.com/boardof-directors . The deadline to request a mailed ballot is April 8

In Person: We’ll have paper ballots available at our office during the voting window. Stop by during regular business hours to cast your vote.

EUFY E25 ROBOT VACUUM AND MOP COMBO

Each participating member will receive a $10 bill credit on May billing statements. To celebrate our move into Boone Power’s new home later this year, we're giving away a powerful grand prize for one of our members' homes. Each participating member will be entered to win a Eufy E25 robot vacuum and mop combo ($880 value); it's self-cleaning, appcontrolled, and perfect for any living space!

ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING IS APRIL 23

We’ll hold our annual business meeting, during which we will share election results and a 2025 financial report, on Thursday, April 23, in the BCA Building at the Boone County Fairgrounds. Members are invited to a meet-andgreet with Boone Power board directors and staff from 6-6:30 p.m. The business meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. Members can attend in-person, watch live on our website at boonepower.com/2026-annualmeeting , listen on the radio at 102.7 FM, or view the recorded meeting on YouTube the week following the live event. We’ll also draw 10 winners of $1,000 scholarships during the business meeting. See more information below.

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS DUE April 20

Each year as a part of our annual business meeting, we award postsecondary scholarships. Members of, or dependents/legal wards of, Boone Power members who will be enrolled full-time in a postsecondary educational institution during the 2026-27 academic year are eligible to apply.

The scholarships are not limited to current high school seniors.

Ten $1,000 scholarships will be awarded during a random drawing at the annual business meeting on April 23. Applicants do not need to be present to win. Proof of enrollment will be required by Nov. 1 to claim the scholarship.

For full details and to apply, visit boonepower.com/ youth-programs . The application deadline is April 20 You’ll need your household’s Boone Power account number to complete the application.

Co-op Solar:

AN EASY WAY TO TAP INTO SOLAR ENERGY

Co-op Solar is a community solar program that makes it easy for members to use solar energy without the cost or hassle of rooftop solar.

When you participate in Co-op Solar, you purchase a block of solar power. Our wholesale power provider owns and maintains the solar arrays, so there’s no equipment to purchase or maintain and nothing to install. Energy purchased through the Co-op Solar program costs 42 cents per block per month in addition to the cooperative’s standard rates and charges. Each block is estimated to produce an average of 43 kilowatthours per month.

A participating member may select up to 100 percent of their expected electric use, not to exceed 83

blocks per member. The additional charge for participating in the Co-op Solar program will appear as a line item on your regular monthly billing statement. The program is open to residential members only.

In addition to our community solar program, we offer the EnviroWatts Green Power rate, which provides residential members with an option to support alternative energy by paying 1.5 cents more per kilowatthour in addition to our standard rate. The premium charged for EnviroWatts helps fund the promotion of renewable sources such as landfill gas and wind.

Members with distributed generation resources can sign up for net metering. If these resources produce excess energy, it is added to a bank of kilowatt-hours for the

EARTH DAY IS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22

account; the bank can be used in future billing periods to offset the energy that would have to be otherwise purchased. Net metering applies only to avoided power purchases from and transmission through the bulk power system. Energy delivery charges are still applicable for all energy delivered to the service location.

Learn more about Boone Power’s renewable energy options at boonepower.com/renewable-energy .

MEMBERS GAIN INSIGHT INTO POWER GRID AND DELIVERY

Boone Power members gathered on the evening of Tuesday, March 3, to learn more about the regional electric grid.

Our guest speaker was Dana Cochran, manager of stakeholder relations at the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO). She provided an overview of MISO to help Boone Power members understand how large-scale grid operations influence the delivery of power to homes and businesses every day.

The evening began with light refreshments and networking among Boone Power members, employees, and board directors, followed by a presentation from Cochran covering what a regional transmission operator is and how MISO interacts with organizations such as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and how these oversight structures ensure consistent, continent-wide reliability standards.

Cochran was joined by Bob Kuzman, MISO’s executive director of external affairs (central region) to answer questions from our members.

The presentation highlighted several key functions.

• GRID OPERATIONS: MISO operates the high-voltage transmission system much like an air-traffic controller — moving electricity safely and efficiently from generation facilities to local utilities around the clock.

to independent power producers, public consumer groups, and environmental representatives.

• ENERGY MARKETS: MISO helps keep wholesale prices competitive and transparent.

• PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE: By working with utilities, regulators, and other stakeholders, MISO studies long-term reliability needs and helps design the grid of the future as the energy mix evolves.

Another point of discussion was the diversity of MISO’s stakeholder community, from electric cooperatives and municipal utilities

Members asked thoughtful questions throughout the evening. The strong turnout demonstrated growing interest in regional issues that affect reliability, affordability, and long-term planning. Thank you to all our members who attended to stay informed about these important issues.

Boone Power hosts occasional Member Ambassadors of the Cooperative events to keep you informed about the electric industry and our programs and services. Visit boonepower.com/memberambassadors to sign up for our distribution list for these events.

With its innovative design, modern comforts, and guest-focused philosophy, American Encore is not just a riverboat, it’s the finest expression of American river cruising ever built. Designed to host just 180 guests, American Encore features more square feet per guest than any other small cruise ship with the largest staterooms globally.

Ship

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT KEY TO THRIVING COMMUNITIES

Every community has its own unique attributes that make it attractive to new or expanding businesses. Those attributes are key for successful economic development — which leads to job creation and economic growth.

Electric cooperatives like yours work hand-in-hand with local and regional economic development corporations to foster growth and development opportunities. This is an important way to attract businesses and investments, and play a role in community planning and development initiatives that align with the growth that a community wants and needs.

Electric cooperatives offer potential commercial and industrial members the best applicable rate, meeting any specialized needs and simply providing businesses with the same reliable electric service that members receive in their homes.

Co-ops also invest in local infrastructure. That can go beyond

just basic electricity. It can include upgraded substations and distribution lines, site-ready industrial parks with power just waiting to be connected, broadband expansion, and even extra EV charging opportunities to help with logistics and workforce mobility.

Offering faster interconnection timelines as well as incentives for large loads may also entice businesses — in such diverse sectors as automotive, manufacturing, quarry/ mining, data centers, medical, retail, service industries, and education — to put down roots in a rural community.

Beyond that, co-ops may provide detailed site-selection data, load forecasts, and GIS mapping to ensure prospective investors have all the information required to make a wise decision.

Cooperatives can also support potential new businesses on the financing front, be it through a USDA

Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant or simply by helping to secure all available state or federal incentives. Additional incentives or rebates for energy efficiency and renewable energy-related efforts may also be available.

Local electric cooperatives thrive when their communities thrive, and economic development is key to both.

by Jeremy Bohn Energy and Member Service Advisor RushShelby Energy

In times of economic uncertainty—when inflation rises, markets fluctuate, and long-term financial stability feels less predictable—many investors turn to gold as a dependable store of value. By holding a portion of your wealth in gold, you can help safeguard your portfolio and preserve long-term financial security, even when broader economic conditions are unclear.

Since 2015, gold has surged over 400% — outpacing both the S&P 500 and the Dow during the same period.

American Gold Reserve is releasing government-issued $5 Gold American Eagles completely free of dealer markup for only $529 each. These beautiful $5 Gold American Eagles are a perfect way to enter the gold market. Set for immediate public release, availability is limited and supplies are expected to sell out quickly.

county feature

Madison County

Madison County honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a statue of the civil rights leader. Midwestern sculptor Kenneth Ryden designed the 8-foot-tall bronze figure. King’s son, Martin Luther King III, attended the statue’s dedication ceremony in 1988.

A COLORFUL INDIANA ICON

Alexandria, Indiana, is home to the World’s Largest Ball of Paint. On Jan. 1, 1997, Michael Carmichael and his son dipped a baseball in baby blue paint and kept adding layers. Over the years, the ball has grown to weigh more than 11,600 pounds with over 30,000 coats in a variety of colors. After reaching 1,000 layers, it was displayed at the Knightstown Children’s Home before returning to Carmichael in 2003. Today, the paintball is housed in the Carmichaels’ “Ball House,” where visitors from across the country and around the world — including Ukraine, Japan, and New Zealand — come to see it. Guests can choose a paint color to add their own layer and sign the surrounding walls with their name and date.

INDIANA’S ANCIENT EARTHWORKS

Each year, around 400,000 people visit Mounds State Park near Anderson, Indiana, to see its 10 ceremonial earthworks built by the prehistoric Adena and Hopewell cultures. The park’s largest earthwork, the Great Mound, measures nearly 400 feet in diameter and is believed to have been constructed around 160 B.C. These mounds served as sacred spaces dedicated to the Sun God and Earth Mother, where people gathered for rituals, ceremonies, and astronomical observations to mark the changing seasons. Today, visitors can also explore the park’s six hiking trails and fish along the White River.

HOME OF THE LITTLE 500

Originally constructed in 1947, the Anderson Speedway is a high-banked oval track with 17-degree turns — nearly double the 9.2-degree banking of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Since 1949, it has held the annual Little 500 sprint car race on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. Known as one of the premier wingless asphalt sprint car races, the Little 500 mimics the Indianapolis 500’s setup with 11 rows of three cars. Drivers complete 500 laps totaling 125 miles, which is an unusually long distance compared to most sprint car races that typically range from 10 to 50 miles.

By Nicole Thomas

COUNTY FACTS

FOUNDED: 1823

NAMED FOR: James Madison, the fourth president of the United States

POPULATION: 130,129

COUNTY SEAT: Anderson INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 48

New look next month

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It’s been

and

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MARKETPLACE

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

Britt Davis, bdavis@indianaec.org, for other small business advertising opportunities in Indiana Connection.

Indiana eats

HOMETOWN HOSPITALITY delivered from scratch

By Chris Adam

Good food served in a comfortable atmosphere makes Fenwick’s Scratch Kitchen and Taproom the place to go in Rensselaer. Those in the community flock to Fenwick’s because of its seasonal menu of family recipes made with fresh ingredients. But Fenwick’s success can also be attributed to its ability to alter course and evolve during the pandemic.

A CHANGE OF PLANS

According to co-owner Kenny VanHouten, Fenwick’s opened as a nano-brewery in 2017 — one of the smallest licensed breweries in the state at the time. Shortly after it launched, the restaurant space next door became available, and Fenwick’s expanded into a full brewpub. “It was a natural extension of what people were already enjoying about

us — good beer, good food, and a comfortable place to gather,” VanHouten said. Then the pandemic happened and everything changed. “In 2024, we made the decision to cease brewing operations and operate as a full restaurant, allowing us to focus all our energy on food, hospitality, and the guest experience.”

A SENSE OF HOMETOWN PRIDE

Fenwick’s stands out because real work goes into the food — the kind you can taste, VanHouten said. A large portion of the menu is made from scratch, from fresh burgers and handcut steaks to house-made sauces and dressings.

“We prioritize quality over shortcuts, and we stay committed to serving dishes that feel crafted rather than mass-produced,” he said. “Beyond the food, people tell us they appreciate

that Fenwick’s feels like a place ‘with a heartbeat.’ It’s casual, welcoming, and geared toward connection — whether that’s a family dinner, a night out with friends, or just a place to unwind after work.”

He said folks appreciate that Fenwick’s stayed committed to the community through tough seasons and they often hear that they’re the “easy choice” for both everyday meals and special gettogethers.

“There’s a sense of hometown pride around Fenwick’s, and that’s something we don’t take lightly,” VanHouten said. “Fenwick’s is about good food, done right, and served in a place where people feel comfortable being themselves. We’re here to bring the community together over plates that are made with intention and delivered with hometown hospitality.”

Be mindful when driving through work zones

Work zones are among the most dangerous places on the road. According to the Indiana Department of Transportation, 269 people have died in work zone crashes in the past 10 years. In 2023 alone, 33 people were killed and more than 1,750 were injured in INDOT work zones.

Work zones don’t only involve highway construction. They also include utility crews who work along the roadside to build, maintain, and repair electric infrastructure. Crews may be working around the next bend, over a hill, or during overnight hours.

“Our crews already face dangerous conditions in their work,” said John Cassady, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives.

“We ask drivers to slow down, stay alert, and give them space to return home safely.”

MOTORISTS SHOULD:

Watch for orange work zone signs, flaggers, and vehicles with flashing lights.

Slow down and be prepared for sudden stops.

Never stop in the roadway. This can trigger rear-end collisions.

Indiana’s “move over” law requires drivers to change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles stopped along the roadway if it is safe to do so. If not, drivers must reduce speed at least 10 mph below the limit and proceed with caution. While the law specifically applies to

emergency vehicles, motorists should extend the same courtesy to all roadside workers.

Violations carry steep penalties including fines, suspended licenses, or jail time if workers are injured or killed.

Rear-end crashes are the most common type of work zone accident and four out of five people killed in these crashes nationally are motorists and passengers. The time saved by speeding is minimal — traveling two miles at 65 mph instead of 45 mph only saves one minute.

Slowing down protects both roadside workers and drivers.

Sources: nwzaw.org, in.gov/indot/safety/ work-zone-safety

LINEMAN

legacy

Two generations of the Taylor family are helping keep north central Indiana’s lights on

co-op

Wake up, go to school, practice football. It was a typical autumn day in 2021 for Ryan Taylor as a junior at Western Boone High School. But a big surprise awaited Ryan at home.

A 35-foot surprise, to be exact — an electric utility pole stretching into the sky over Ryan’s backyard.

“I was shocked but appreciative because I knew it would be a great way for me to practice,” said Ryan, who by then knew he wanted to follow in the footsteps of his father, Bobby Taylor Jr., and become a lineman.

Bobby Jr., then a lineman with the city of Frankfort, had recently removed the pole from active service near their family’s home.

“When Ryan said he wanted to learn how to climb, I thought, ‘Well, there’s only one way to find out,’” said Bobby Jr., who has been a lineman since becoming an apprentice with the city of Lebanon in 1999. “The pole we took out was still in good shape. So, I asked my boss if he cared whether I set it at our house, and he said, ‘No man, that’s pretty cool!’ ”

Ryan soon began the first ascent of his lineman journey … 10 feet up to start, of course.

Today, Bobby, Jr., 48, and Ryan, 21, each serve as linemen for neighboring Indiana electric cooperatives. Bobby Jr. is a working foreman with Tipmont, and Ryan is an apprentice lineman with Boone Power. Between them, the Taylors

help maintain electric service for more than 50,000 north central Indiana meters.

“The job has a lot of responsibility, but it’s also incredibly fulfilling,” Ryan said. “It’s rewarding to know you’re helping people. I’m a big believer in leading by example, and this example was set for me my whole life.”

In 2024, Bobby Jr. brought nearly three decades of linework under his tool belt to Tipmont.

“Bobby Jr.’s knowledge of safety, linework, and strong collaboration is a tremendous asset for us,” said Joe Banfield, operations manager for Tipmont. “He brings a lot of experience and leadership for the younger guys in our shop.”

Even for a seasoned professional like Bobby Jr., it was natural to be nervous about Ryan choosing a career that demands diligence, communication, patience, and teamwork while working at great heights and in severe weather conditions.

“I know the hazards of the job and what it can be in different situations, so there’s always that concern,” Bobby Jr. said. “But he’s got a great group of guys to look out for him.”

One of them is Boone Power journeyman lineman Dave Culley, who also taught Bobby Jr. how to climb when they both worked for Lebanon Utilities. The Culleys are also a multigenerational-lineman family, as Dave’s son, Evan, now works for the city of Lebanon. Dave is proud to see him build a tradition.

“I love being a lineman and seeing my son grow in his own career,” Dave said. “It’s an honor and privilege to help train the next generation and help them gain knowledge and skills to safely maintain reliable electric service in our communities. Ryan has been a great asset to Boone Power. He takes initiative and has an eagerness to learn.”

Ryan’s zest to learn about linework began as he peppered Bobby Jr. with questions about his job in junior high. That curiosity sometimes meant tagging along. If Bobby Jr. received an emergency call after picking up Ryan from sports practice, Ryan would safely observe from the truck — watching everything from the proper handling of downed wire to replacing a faulty transformer.

“That showed me how many people, and how many problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, are involved,” Ryan said. “Watching my dad demonstrated the value of doing things right and doing them safely, being respectful, and being quick to listen and slow to speak.”

“IT’S REWARDING TO KNOW YOU’RE HELPING PEOPLE. I’M A BIG BELIEVER IN LEADING BY EXAMPLE, AND THIS EXAMPLE WAS SET FOR ME MY WHOLE LIFE.”

RYAN TAYLOR

About a year after starting on the practice pole, Ryan began a senioryear internship at Boone Power — first gathering materials and work orders, then joining crews at job sites.

The need for professionals to build new (and maintain existing) electric distribution infrastructure goes hand in hand with north central Indiana’s consistent growth. This was a perfect blend of timing and opportunity for Ryan, who received a full-time job offer from Boone Power in spring 2023 and started two days after graduating high school.

About three years later, Ryan’s lessons from the truck have shifted to strategic discussions and practical advice. In the Taylor family, these talks also include 23-year-old Robby, an apprentice lineman at Crawfordsville Electric Light and Power and Bobby Jr.’s eldest son.

“We talk about our work and ask how things went if we were changing a pole or working in bad weather,” Bobby Jr. said. “We ask each other if we’d have done anything differently. It’s a good way to keep sharing knowledge and helpful information.”

And while it’s too soon to talk careers for Bobby Jr.’s youngest son, 8-year-old Cole, he’s now asking his dad questions about work, too, and has dressed up as a lineman for Halloween.

Ryan and Bobby Jr. also worked together for the first time as professionals at the 2025 Indiana Electric Cooperative Lineman Rodeo. This showcase of onthe-job skills and safe operations simulates such real-world scenarios as rescuing an injured lineman from atop a pole, line restoration, and hardware installation/removal.

“That was something we never really thought we’d get the chance to do,” Ryan said. “I was very appreciative and it’s a memory I definitely cherish.”

Bobby Jr. said linework has proven a great fit for Ryan’s personality — eager to work with his hands and laidback in nature … but always ready to rise to the occasion.

“Linework is a great trade,” Bobby Jr. said. “I’m proud that two of my sons have chosen this work because I take pride in it and I really love it.”

“With linework, you can put your name on something every day, give it your best in a way that makes people proud, and go above and beyond any chance you get,” Ryan said.

And as for that practice pole?

“It’s still back there,” Ryan said with a laugh. “We still climb it from time to time. It’s always good to keep practicing.”

HONORING OUR LINEWORKERS

Cooperatives celebrate Lineman Appreciation Day the first Monday of April each year

Every April, electric cooperatives across the nation come together to celebrate National Lineman Appreciation Day. This annual recognition highlights the dedication, technical expertise, and personal sacrifice of the men and women who keep the lights on.

Lineworkers face hazards ranging from severe weather and traffic danger to highvoltage equipment and physically demanding conditions. Yet they

serve with quiet professionalism, responding at all hours to restore power safely and efficiently.

Stories like the Taylors’ exemplify the commitment that defines the trade. Whether training on backyard practice poles or working side-by-side during statewide events, generations of linemen continue to build and strengthen the reliability of our electric system.

“On the job training” started early for future apprentice lineman Ryan Taylor. When he was a high school junior, his father, Bobby Jr., set a 35foot utility pole in their backyard so Ryan could begin honing his climbing skills. This photo documents the day he climbed that pole for the first time.

This April — and every day — we thank the lineworkers who uphold that legacy. Their skill and service power our homes, businesses, and communities.

Indiana’s work zone law

Indiana imposes strict penalties for driving infractions in highway work zones:

First-time citations for speeding in a work zone: $300 FINE

Second offense within three years: $500 FINE

Third offense within three years: $1,000 FINE

Reckless or aggressive driving in a work zone: UP

Causing injury or death to a worker:

The law is designed to protect not only highway crews but also utility workers and others performing critical jobs along roadways.

Collectors LOVE “firsts” as no collection is complete without the very first coin. First-year coins are almost always the most coveted coins and the 1964 First Year Silver Kennedy Half Dollar is no exception, especially when you consider the coin has been struck for over 60 years! But there’s something else that makes the First-Year 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar hoarded by all.

THE ONLY SILVER KENNEDY STRUCK IN 90% SILVER

What makes the 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollar stand out is its silver composition. While Silver Kennedy Half Dollars were issued from 1964-1970, the 1964 Silver Half is the ONLY YEAR made in 90% silver!

PUBLIC RELEASE - ONLY 1,193 COINS AVAILABLE

Rarcoa®, America’s Oldest Coin Company, is announcing the public release of 1,193 of the very first year and only 90% silver year, 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollars. What may be even more impressive is that each coin is in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, pristine as the day they were released.

SOLD NATIONALLY FOR AS MUCH AS $103

This same 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollar sells nationally for as much as $103. But thanks to Rarcoa’s buying power and deep numismatic expertise, you won’t have to pay $103.

or More! Limited time only.

You won’t have to pay $90. You won’t even have to pay $70. If you call now you can secure your first-year, only 90% silver, 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollar for as low as $59 per coin!

Coffee break

From morning cup to secret ingredient: Cooking with coffee

COFFEE CREME BRULEE

4 egg yolks at room temperature

¾ cup sugar, divided

1½ cups heavy cream, divided

1 Tbsp instant coffee

½ tsp vanilla extract

1 cup finely crushed chocolatecovered espresso beans (optional)

Preheat oven to 300 F. In a large bowl, beat egg yolks and 6 Tbsp sugar with a whisk for 1 minute until smooth. In a medium bowl, combine coffee and ½ cup heavy cream. Whisk until smooth, then add remaining heavy cream and whisk until well blended. Add coffee/cream mixture and vanilla to egg yolks and gently fold together with a rubber spatula. Use a ladle to pour mixture into four individual ramekins filled ¾ of the way to the top. Place ramekins in a roasting pan and pour water into the pan (around the ramekins, not into them) or until it reaches halfway up the side of the ramekins. Bake for 40-50 minutes until the brulee jiggles slightly when you shake the pan. Adjust baking time as necessary to ensure creme brulees are sufficiently set up. Remove pan from the oven and allow the heat of the water to finish the cooking process. Allow ramekins to sit for 20-30 minutes until cooled and fully solidified. Sprinkle 1½ Tbsp of sugar over each brulee, then use a small culinary torch to caramelize the sugar.

NOTE: If you don't have a culinary torch, you can also caramelize the sugar by placing the roasting pan just under your oven's broiler, but watch closely to prevent scorching. You can also add a little extra coffee flavor as well as crunch by allowing the caramelized sugar to cool then sprinkling each brulee with ¼ cup of chocolate-covered espresso beans that have been finely crushed.

PORK TENDERLOIN WITH COFFEE RUB

Shirley Dowell, North Vernon

1 lb pork tenderloin

1 Tbsp instant espresso powder

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp garlic powder

Trim any excess fat off the tenderloin. In a small bowl, mix the espresso powder, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar and pour onto a large plate. Place the tenderloin on top of the rub and roll it several times while pressing gently to coat the entire surface with the rub. Cover the tenderloin with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. Unwrap the tenderloin after 1 hour and sprinkle with salt and pepper on all sides. Preheat oven to 375 F. Lightly coat a large saute pan with olive oil and preheat to piping hot. Add the tenderloin to the pan and sear just long enough to brown on each side

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp brown sugar

Olive oil for searing

Salt and pepper

— approximately 30-60 seconds for each surface. Place tenderloin in a shallow pan and roast in the oven 15-20 minutes until cooked thoroughly. Slice and serve immediately.

NOTE : When you place the tenderloin in the saute pan, you should hear a loud sizzling sound. If you don't, the pan is not hot enough. Remove the tenderloin and continue preheating the pan. Cooking at a lower temperature will prevent searing the rub onto the meat and a lot of the rub will be left in the pan, resulting in less flavor and texture on the tenderloin.

1 cup solid packed pumpkin puree

⅔ cup light brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)

1½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1½ cups cold espresso or strong coffee

1 package (about 24) lady finger cookies

Cocoa powder for topping

In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin, brown sugar, vanilla, mascarpone, and spices until combined. Set aside. In another mixing bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks just barely form. Don't overbeat or you will form butter. Fold whipped cream into pumpkin mix just until combined. Set aside. Pour espresso into a bowl. Dip lady fingers in espresso to cover both sides. Don't oversoak the cookies. Arrange one layer of cookies in the bottom of a 9 x 9-inch square glass or plastic pan. You may have to cut the cookies to fit into the pan. Spread half of the pumpkin mix over the soaked cookies. Repeat for a second layer. Sift cocoa powder over the tiramisu. Cover and chill at least 4 hours to set.

Indiana State Park INNS and the OUTDOORS

Get away close to home at an

By Brian D. Smith

Winter’s done and spring’s begun. Tired of living on the run?

Maybe it’s time for a breather — nothing grandiose, just a getaway that’s not too long, not too far, and not horrendously pricey. A placid place surrounded by woods, water, and wildlife.

Here’s the good news: There’s room at the inns. Of the 24 Indiana State Parks, seven offer overnight accommodations, and they’ll soon be joined by an eighth, Potato Creek. Spanning the state from the extreme northeast to the Ohio River, they feature more than 600 rooms for around $85 to $250 per night — with

consecutive-date discounts of twofor-one in the winter and 25 percent in the spring and fall on select nights. (Information: 877-LODGES-1 and in.gov/dnr/state-parks.)

Long-term planners, take note: Room reservations can be made as early as two years before your preferred date. “And the best part about that is that rates are set for what they are now,” said Christopher Fouke, business development manager for Indiana State Park Inns. “So, the earlier you book, the less it’s going to be.”

Don’t limit yourself to warm weather. Today’s state parks are year-round destinations packed with natural and manmade attractions, making it easy to create a plan for all seasons.

Heavy snow and frozen lakes bring out the skis, skates, sleds, and snowshoes at Pokagon, not to mention 30 mph runs on the park’s iconic toboggan. Spring rains feed the four waterfalls at Clifty Falls. Summer finds Fort Harrison’s nationally acclaimed public golf course in full swing. And nothing says autumn like a leaf-peeping trek to Brown County.

Nor should wicked weather put a damper on your great escape. Parents with cooped-up kids can take their bouncing brood to a game room or an indoor pool, while adults seeking less kinetic endeavors can curl up in a library, a wildlife observation area, or a fireplace-toasted lounge on chilly days.

Sound appealing? Read on for a deeper dive into the seven inns and the state parks that host them. You’ll find enough possibilities to turn your in-state excursion into an inside-thepark home run.

BROWN COUNTY STATE PARK

Brown State Park County joined the Hoosier parks system in 1929, but its condition during the Great Depression was greatly depressing. A deforested tangle of weeds and briars, it regained its sylvan splendor through the tireless tree-planting of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).

This 15,815-acre expanse ranks as Indiana’s largest state park — more than 10 times the size of Clifty Falls or Spring Mill — and with 1.5 million visitors per year, second only to Indiana Dunes in popularity. Fall foliage draws the masses, but its yearround offerings include 150 miles of roads and trails accommodating legs and wheels of two and four.

Hikers can choose from 13 paths leading to destinations such as the Ogle Hollow Nature Preserve, home to the Indiana-endangered yellowwood tree. The saddle barn caters to horse lovers with guided trail rides and pony rides for all ages. Mountain bikers regard the park as one of the Midwest’s best destinations. And your family car will take you to an 1838 covered bridge, an hour-long audio tour, and the scenic Seven Vista Challenge.

Fishing, boating, tennis, and pickleball await guests on suitable days. And if it’s damp outside, you can get damper inside at the Abe Martin Inn aquatic center, home of a water slide and zero-entry (gradually sloping)

Brown County State Park, Indiana’s largest state park, features 150 miles of roads and trails. The park is located in Nashville, Indiana.

swimming pool. The 84-room inn, which also rents cabins, is named after an early-20th-century comic character from Brown County who dispensed homespun wisdom such as, “A good listener is usually thinking about something else.”

Pro tip: For a drone’s-eye view of the park, climb the 90-foot fire tower, built in 1930.

Fort Harrison State Park is located just minutes from downtown Indianapolis. Visitors can enjoy outdoor pastimes like fishing, hiking, golf, and horseback riding.

FORT HARRISON STATE PARK

During its 90 years as a U.S. Army post, Fort Benjamin Harrison remained off-limits to most outsiders — particularly unescorted women, who in earlier times were stopped, questioned, and shown the front gate if they lacked authorization. Then, in 1996, Fort Ben became Fort Has-Ben, trading its military stripes for civilian

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life as a 1,744-acre state park that retained 70% of the original property.

Today, more than a million visitors a year are discovering the secrets of Fort Harrison State Park, situated nine miles northeast of downtown Indianapolis in suburban Lawrence.

Start with The Fort Golf Resort, a Pete Dye-designed layout that once ranked third on Golf Digest’s “Best Affordable New Public Courses” list. Originally nine holes and expanded to 18 in 1972, the former GI links remain one of Indiana’s best.

For history buffs, the Museum of 20th Century Warfare displays artifacts from former Fort Harrison soldiers, and two districts listed in the National Register of Historic Places invite exploration. Military history even encompasses the lodgings — the 28-

room Fort Harrison Inn was a post hospital, and the Harrison House and Officer Homes accommodated visiting brass.

The roll call of activities includes 15 miles of hiking trails (one paved), guided horseback rides, picnicking, fishing, and on snowy days, sledding on a popular hill — possibilities well worth saluting.

Pro tip: A 10-acre dog park, accessible only from the north, contains three separate play areas.

POKAGON STATE PARK

For most Hoosiers, the easiest way to reach Pokagon State Park is to head north on I-69 and exit four miles before you run out of Indiana. The 1,260acre Steuben County property tucks into the state’s northeast corner like a kitchen tile wedged between Michigan and Ohio.

This is lake country, a gift of the glaciers that melted 15,000 years ago, and as Indiana counties go, Steuben is one of the “lake-iest” with more than 100. Pokagon visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on Lake James — the state’s third-largest natural freshwater lake – along with its two beaches.

Pokagon (pronounced “Po-KAY-gun”), which turned 100 last year, was originally known as Lake James State Park until its 1937 relabeling to honor Leopold and Simon Pokagon, fatherand-son leaders of the Potawatomi (“Pot-a-WOT-a-me”) tribe. The namesake Potawatomi Inn offers 126 rooms plus cabins, and guests can access 14 miles of trails, bicycle rental, and a saddle barn.

In winter the park comes alive with cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowshoes. Indoor offerings include

a pool, a hot tub, a sauna, a game room, two restaurants, and several fireplaces.

But Pokagon’s claim to fame is its toboggan, initially constructed in 1935 by the CCC. Sleds on two tracks slide from a 30-foot tower onto the quarter-mile course, which plunges 90 vertical feet.

It’s all downhill from there.

Pro tip: For an outdoor workout (and a souvenir for completion), try the Hell’s Point Challenge, an eight-mile hike with an 84-step climb to the park’s highest spot.

CLIFTY FALLS STATE PARK

Eleanor Roosevelt slept here. En route from Lexington, Kentucky, to the Chicago World’s Fair in 1934, she and two female companions found lodgings at the Clifty Inn — where, clutching a pair of binoculars, the First Lady glimpsed the Ohio River from the 400-foot bluffs.

The same spectacular view comes free with any stay at Clifty Falls State Park, along with access to four

waterfalls and the city of Madison, whose 133 downtown blocks form a National Historic Landmark district. No wonder the late TV reporter Charles Kuralt — known for his “On the Road” segments with CBS Evening News — dubbed Madison “the most beautiful river town in America.” Meanwhile, USA Today readers have voted it the Best Small Town in the Midwest for the past two years.

Within the 1,519-acre park, history and hiking mingle in the traces of an

1850s railroad project that went off track before it ever got any. Scattered remnants lie along the 15 miles of trails — limestone bridge abutments, retaining walls, and a 600-foot tunnel that’s currently closed to all but the bats, frogs, and salamanders that call it home. Hikers can also tackle the Four Falls Challenge, a four-mile trek to every waterfall in the park and receive a souvenir sticker to document it.

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The Clifty Inn encompasses 71 rooms classified as riverside or parkside, depending on the view, and The Falls restaurant serves homestyle delights such as the Hoosier Tenderloin and Fried Biscuits and Apple Butter. Other amenities include an indoor and Olympic-size outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and a sun porch.

Pro tip: Waterfalls vary from a roar to a trickle depending on recent

precipitation, so you’ll likely find them at their most photogenic in winter and spring.

MCCORMICK’S CREEK STATE PARK

They called it “the Grand Canyon of Indiana” when McCormick’s Creek State Park opened in 1916. And it was no accident that the dedication of this first state park took place on July 4 during the centennial year of Indiana statehood, to the accompaniment

of speeches, music, a picnic, and fireworks.

A century later, McCormick’s Creek is still worth celebrating — and there’s a lot more space to do it in. The park now encompasses almost 2,000 acres, more than five times its original 347, along with several other natural curiosities. Visitors can overnight at the 76-room Canyon Inn or a cabin and enjoy the restaurant, indoor pool, tennis courts, and a climbable fire tower.

From there it’s a short but rugged hike to the canyon and nearby waterfall — or a moderate jaunt to Wolf Cave and the Twin Bridges, naturally formed stone arches. Spelunkers should bring a flashlight and expect to do a belly crawl on a potentially muddy cave floor.

Unfortunately, a harsher side of nature — an EF-3 tornado in March 2023 — has left visible scars. Originating within the park, the 153-mph twister caused two fatalities, felled thousands of trees, and ravaged the campground and the Wolf Cave Nature Preserve. About four out of 11 miles of trails, all in the park’s northwest section, will remain closed indefinitely.

Pro tip: The old Statehouse Quarry, accessible by hiking trail, furnished limestone that formed the foundation of the state capitol during the late 19th century.

SPRING MILL STATE PARK

Spring Mill State Park is as old as pioneer times and as new as the space age — and you can sample both without leaving the park. Nature’s highlights are even older, including a parcel of virgin forest and several caves, one of which hosts underground boat tours.

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Your Water Heater Uses More Energy Than You Think.

A Heat Pump Water Heater Helps You Use Less Energy.

Running showers, laundry, and dishes adds up — fast. Your water heater is your home’s second largest energy user. That’s a big impact on your electric bill. With a Heat Pump Water Heater, you get the same comfort as your existing water heater using only a fraction of the energy, helping you save month after month.

To learn more about Heat Pump Water Heaters stop into Menards. Select stores will have the Richmond Mobile Showroom on site! Stop in from 9:00am to 3:30pm and talk with a Richmond Representative.

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At Pioneer Village, costumed interpreters re-enact 19th century life in about 20 historic buildings (most reconstructions and relocated originals), mimicking the Spring Mill community that once thrived here. The star attraction, a 200-year-old restored grist mill, resumed grinding corn a year ago after breaking down in 2021. It was rebuilt using tornado-toppled timber from McCormick’s Creek State Park.

A more recent pioneering past is honored at the Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom Memorial Museum, which features the Gemini 3 capsule and space suit used by the astronaut from nearby Mitchell. He perished in 1967 when fire broke out inside Apollo 1.

Elsewhere on the 1,358-acre property, Spring Mill Inn offers 71 rooms plus cabins, along with the Millstone Dining Room and a swimming pool. Guests can also enjoy the 11 miles of hiking trails, the two-mile mountain bike trail, and basketball and tennis courts. And one of the park’s three nature preserves, named for the Mitchell Karst Plain, recognizes the unusual topography of the area — “a limestone plain riddled like Swiss cheese with sinkholes,” in the words of WLFI-TV, Lafayette.

Pro tip: The grist mill grinds corn on weekends from late April through October, and the resulting cornmeal — sold by the bag at Spring Mill — is a coarser-than-store-bought kind that makes excellent cornbread.

TURKEY RUN STATE PARK

With a little more luck, Indiana’s second state park might have become its first. And with a little less luck, it might have become veneer.

Find breathtaking views on your hike at Turkey Run State Park in Marshall.

The park offers 14 miles of trails for visitors to explore. (Photo courtesy of Indiana Department of Natural Resources.)

ONE PASS, ENDLESS ADVENTURES.

Purchase your Indiana State Park Entrance Pass at stores.innsgifts.com/permits

The state tried to buy Turkey Run State Park’s original 288 acres of predominantly virgin forest at auction in May 1916, but couldn’t beat a $30,200 bid by Hoosier Veneer Co. To the rescue came a groundswell of donors, including the owners of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the resulting $40,200 offer closed the deal.

Today, the park is a 2,400-acre geological wonderland, with 14 miles of trails through sandstone ravines and gorges sculpted by glacial meltwater. Colorfully named geological features — Punch Bowl, Ice Box, Camel’s Back, and Gypsy Gulch — invite exploration. And while some trails are rated “rugged” or “very rugged,” it’s a risk/reward prospect,

as evidenced by Midwest Living magazine’s 2023 choice of ladderequipped Trail 3 as the “Best Hike in the Midwest.”

The park abounds with manmade treasures, too: Two covered bridges, a coal mine, a log church, and a suspension bridge across Sugar Creek, which divides the park. There’s even a planetarium. Turkey Run Inn has 61 rooms plus cabins, along with the Narrows Restaurant and an indoor heated pool.

Just don’t go looking for running turkeys.

Pro tip: Trails can get waterlogged, muddy, and slippery, so bring sturdy waterproof hiking boots with treads.

EVENT GUIDE

EARTH DAY FESTIVAL

APRIL 18

St. Mary-of-the-Woods | Various locations spsmw.org

Nature shows and earth-related craft activities for all ages, spinning/weaving/felting demonstrations, visits with the alpacas, food, and craft vendors. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. No admission charge.

WHITESTOWN VIKING FEST

APRIL 24-26

Whitestown | Anson Acres Park whitestown.in.gov/parks-events

Step into a Norse adventure with Viking villages, battle reenactments, live entertainment, and food. Admission charge.

CROSSROADS ACOUSTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL

APRIL 24-25

Seymour | Downtown crossroadsacousticfest.com

Americana music, food, drinks, and artist merchandise. Admission charge.

MANSFIELD MUSHROOM FESTIVAL

APRIL 24-26

Mansfield | Hilltop Farm coveredbridgemansfield.com

5

LANESVILLE HERITAGE WEEKEND

16

Lanesville | Lanesville Heritage Park lanesvilleheritageweekend.com

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 5 6 6

Mushroom auctions, live music, vendors, and food. Car show on Sunday. Camping available. No admission charge.

Travel through the scenic countryside via tractor and enjoy lunch. Snacks and lunch provided. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $30 with all proceeds benefiting the Crusade for Children.

FAIRY, GNOME, AND TROLL FESTIVAL

MAY 16

Kendallville | Downtown kendallvillemainstreet.com

Art, craft, and food vendors; storytime with Tinkerbell; fairy tea party; meet a unicorn; and sword fighting comedy. No admission charge.

ELECTRIC BILL INSIGHTS

The reason for higher winter bills

Ifyou opened your January electric bill and thought, “That seems high,” you weren’t alone. When bills jump, it’s natural to ask what changed.

One question I’ve heard quite a bit lately is whether data centers and large energy users are driving up electricity costs.

Here’s what I can tell you. In February, we announced that a global company is building a data center in one of our member co-op territories. From the beginning, we worked to structure an agreement that reflects our cooperative values. The data center will pay for its power, all associated fees, and the full cost of connecting to the grid.

Over 20 years, that agreement is projected to deliver millions of dollars in savings across all 21

Wabash Valley Power Alliance member co-ops. Those savings will help strengthen reliability and support long-term rate stability for co-op families and businesses.

Electricity costs have increased across the country, but the drivers are familiar: fuel markets, infrastructure investment, and extreme weather. Growth by itself isn’t the problem. What matters is how it’s structured and who pays for it. That’s where our focus has been from day one.

So, what caused higher bills this winter? In most cases, it came down to electricity use. When temperatures drop well below normal, heating systems run longer and often switch to auxiliary heat, which uses more electricity. Even if

the rate itself doesn’t change, using more energy results in a higher total bill.

As a member-owned cooperative, we plan for both the short term and the long term. We manage growth carefully. We structure agreements responsibly. And we make decisions with your best interests at the center.

Energy markets will change. Weather will fluctuate. Growth will come. My focus will not change, which is to ensure we are prepared and that we continue delivering reliable, affordable power for the communities we serve.

Jeff Conrad President and CEO Wabash Valley Power Alliance

HISTORY IN REAL LIFE

By Natalie Derrickson

Southern Indiana’s riverside jewel celebrates art, history, and science — all under one roof

Nestled against the Ohio River is a place so special, one of Picasso’s rare works calls it home. The Evansville Museum of Art, History, and Science showcases permanent exhibitions celebrating the tri-state region and the historic moments that shaped communities, inspired innovations, and built industries.

The museum’s galleries shift regularly, sharing the spotlight across over 30,000 items entrusted to the museum for preservation. One must-see piece can be found in the Koch Foundation Gallery: Pablo Picasso’s glass mosaic, “Seated Woman in Red Hat.” Originally gifted to the museum in 1963, the mosaic was in storage until its 2012 rediscovery. After preservation, it went on display in 2024. See the luminous glass gemmail and four additional Picasso works in the gallery.

At the Evansville Museum Transportation Center, view a model railroad depicting life in the midcentury and learn about early river, rail, and aviation history that helped build Evansville’s economy.

Experience the exhibit, “Rivertown USA,” just as you would from the 1840s into the early 20th century, and explore shops of the times — a general store, doctor’s office, log cabin, and toy shop make it easy to imagine the way it was. Visitors experience the city’s history first-hand, learning about life during World War I and the Great Flood of 1937.

In the Welborn Baptist Hands-On Science Center, witness gravity in action, learn about clouds, and bring the magic of science to life. “Families appreciate the hands-on elements woven into the science and history areas, making the museum easy to explore at a comfortable pace,” Explore Evansville’s Kate Reibel said.

A visit to the museum isn’t complete without time spent in the Koch Immersive Theater and Planetarium, whose exterior is a piece of art itself. Every guest has the best seat in the house and gets a free theater ticket with museum admission to see traditional planetarium shows and fulldome, immersive cinema projected through 11 million pixels.

The Evansville Museum of Art, History, and Science is open Thursday through Sunday and is located at 411 S.E. Riverside Drive, Evansville, IN 47713.

For hours and events, visit emuseum.org.

Spring is here and so are the wildflowers

By Mike Lunsford

Iam one of those optimistic sorts who declares spring’s arrival as soon as I slip the muddy bonds of February. A true believer in “meteorological” seasons, I contend that spring is here on March 1, despite its usual snowy backsliding. Among the reasons to feel this way is a little bit of white and violet and green called harbinger of spring.

Before virtually any other sign of the new season appears, before trees bud and frogs croak, harbinger of spring is here, a small but mighty usher that opens the door to wood anemones and spring beauties, prairie trillium, and blue phlox.

Although I walk down into my woods in all seasons, including a fair amount of time in the wind and snow of winter to inspect beaver dams and pond ice, I can also find harbinger of spring as early as February pulling itself out of the frozen ground amid last fall’s leaves and fallen twigs.

Of course, by late March and early April, the curtain has been pulled back on the new season, and I begin to see a lot of old friends in the usual spots: the wild ginger that grows on a hillside where an old power line was removed, the buttercups that flourish near a meandering branch tucked away in my in-laws’ beautiful woods, the Star-of-Bethlehem that pops up under a magnolia tree near my cabin.

I nearly always choose to be in the places where I know spring wildflowers prosper, some nearly hidden by the woods’ undergrowth by very early May. Among them, lightcatching waterleaf that grows in great lavender stands in the low places near our pond, deep purple larkspur I first see along an old railroad grade, and brilliant firepinks whose bright red stars thrive amidst yellow trout lilies on an east-facing hillside that sits above an otherwise swampy and smelly wetland.

I enjoy Virginia bluebells too, a thick-stemmed and showy mixture of blooms that only last a few weeks. Always abuzz with bumblebees — their primary pollinators — bluebells aren’t as common as they once were. Because they are drawn to growing in flood plains, I know I can find them each spring in an oxbow that juts out into the creek, a place that holds little else but fallen boxelders and rogue maple trees.

A few months ago, I learned that the word “harbinger” has Germanic and French and Middle English origins and that it was a title given to those who went ahead of an army or traveling nobility to find lodging and food, hence the idea of announcing an arrival. Spring is here; a tiny flower has told us so.