Get involved: Serve on our board of directors
Dubois REC’s
T he
LITTLE LIBRARY that could Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library celebrates 30 years of inspiration
PAGE 20
JANUARY 2026
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from the editor
The spark of imagination
VOLUME 75 • NUMBER 7 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340
Growing up, my mom made sure I had plenty of books and read to me every night before I went to bed. When we had our daughter, Gwen, I also wanted to make books a priority for her. My husband and I have been reading to her every night since before she even understood what a book was. Now, she loves being read to at any time of the day. Some of her favorites are the Berenstain Bears books. Gwen is also enrolled in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which we highlight in this month’s feature story. When the idea was suggested to sign her up for the library just before she was born, I was a little hesitant. I mistakenly thought that the Imagination Library was only for kids “in need.” I didn’t want to take a spot away from a child who needed it more. However, after looking into the program, I realized it was intended for all children, regardless of their families’ financial situations. I’m so glad we signed her up. She gets very excited when she receives a new book and wants to read it right away. The books cover a variety of subjects and are made of durable paper, allowing her to read them many times and spend time looking at them on her own. She enjoys “Tad and Dad,” a book about a growing tadpole and his annoyed frog father, and
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: Steve McMichael President Dr. Richard Leeper Vice President Jamey Marcum Secretary/Treasurer John Cassady CEO EDITORIAL STAFF: Britt Davis Editor Mandy Barth Vice President of Communication Lauren Carman Communication Manager
“Ice Cream Face,” about a kid who loves ice cream so much he wants it
Ashley Curry Production and Design Coordinator
for every meal. Both books have unique artwork that she loves to look at.
Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist
I encourage you to sign up the children in your life for this special program, as fostering a love of reading provides lasting benefits through childhood and into adulthood.
On the menu: April: Submit your favorite recipes
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.
Britt Davis Editor bdavis@indianaec.org
Amber Knight Creative Manager
you.
using coffee, deadline Feb. 1. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.
Giveaway: Enter to win a coffee gift set. Visit
indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests or send your contact information to the address below. The deadline to enter is Jan. 31.
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.
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.
JANUARY 2026
3
contents
JANUARY
12
18
county
03 FROM THE EDITOR 05 CO-OP NEWS Energy news and information from your electric cooperative 10 ENERGY Resolve to save money (and energy) in the new year
food
30
outdoors
cover story
12 COUNTY Grant County
18 FOOD Create your ideal rice bowl
28 HOOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS
14 INDIANA EATS Aspasia Coffee and Bake Shop is making gluten-free dreams come true
20 COVER STORY Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library celebrates 30 years of inspiration
16 SAFETY Be prepared for winter storms
26 BEST OF INDIANA Nominate your favorite places for our readers’ choice awards
29 TRAVEL Koteewi Run offers 700 feet of tubing lanes in central Indiana (NOT IN ALL EDITIONS)
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Indiana Connection 4 JANUARY 2026
20
30 OUTDOORS Longing for nostalgic snow days (NOT IN ALL EDITIONS)
On the cover In 1995, singer, songwriter, and actress Dolly Parton launched the Imagination Library in Sevier County, Tennessee. Since then, the library, which offers free books to children from birth to age five, has grown into an international initiative that distributes over 3 million books each month. Learn more about this inspiring program in this month’s cover feature.
Working together www.duboisrec.com CONTACT US Office: 812-482-5454 Billing Dept.: 812-482-1664 Operations Dept.: 812-482-1188 After Hours: 812-482-5455 Fax: 812-482-7015 CEO AND GENERAL MANAGER Joe Henson OFFICE HOURS 7 a.m.–4 p.m., Monday-Friday 7 a.m.–3:30 p.m. for Line Dept. STREET ADDRESS 1400 Energy Drive Jasper, IN 47546 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 610 Jasper, IN 47547-0610 EMERGENCY POWER OUTAGES To report service interruptions, call: 812-482-5454 (during regular hours) or 812-482-5455 (after hours) day or night. Please have your account number ready when reporting outages. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Brad Knies, President Richard A. Wendholt, Vice President Randall L. Stemle, Secretary-Treasurer Mark Montgomery Andy Schwenk Steve Speedy David Rudolph KEY STAFF Craig Adams Manager of Finance Matt Brames Manager of Engineering Greg Dilger Engineering Project Manager Ruth Hopf Billing Supervisor Patrick Lichlyter Manager of Operations CUSTOMER SERVICES Budget billing SmartHub Pay by phone 24/7 Drive-thru window Night depository Medical account watch This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
to lower demand
When outdoor temperatures drop, electricity use naturally rises. Colder weather drives us indoors, where we rely more heavily on home heating systems, more lighting and household appliances. Heating systems run longer and more frequently to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Combine that with the fact that most people use electricity at the same times — typically in the mornings and early evenings — and the result is significant pressure on our electric grid.
Dubois REC works closely with Hoosier Energy, our local generation and transmission (G&T) cooperative, to plan for these seasonal weather patterns and changes and ensure you have reliable power every day of the year. This partnership involves detailed resource and infrastructure planning to make certain electricity is available whenever you need it. However, it’s important to remember that our local system is part of a much larger regional and national electric grid. During the winter months, when homes and businesses across the country are using more electricity simultaneously, overall demand can approach — or occasionally exceed — available supply. This is especially true during severe weather events, such as ice storms, sudden temperature drops or equipment malfunctions that reduce generation capacity. To prepare for these scenarios and minimize risks, Dubois REC and our G&T partner take proactive measures to strengthen reliability year-round. These include routine system maintenance, investments in grid modernization and comprehensive disaster response planning. These proactive steps are designed to ensure our portion of the grid remains resilient even under extreme conditions. Yet, maintaining a reliable electric system requires a collective effort — and every member plays an important role in lowering demand when the grid is under stress.
You can help reduce the stress on the electric system by taking simple actions during periods of high electricity use, especially on the coldest days of winter: • Lower your thermostat slightly. Even reducing the temperature by a few degrees can help. • Delay using large appliances during peak hours, which typically includes the early morning hours when folks are getting ready for school or work, and the evening when everyone returns home. Plan to run dishwashers, washing machines and dryers during offpeak hours — typically midday or late evening. • Adjust your water heater. Setting it to 120 degrees F and spacing out showers helps conserve both energy and hot water. • Unplug unnecessary devices. Power used for lighting and electronics adds up and accounts for a significant portion of home energy use. Disconnect unused items to reduce energy waste. Understanding how winter weather impacts electricity demand is key to maintaining system reliability. By practicing simple energy conservation habits at home, you not only save money on your monthly bill — you also help strengthen the resilience of the grid that powers our community. Together, through small actions and shared awareness, we can ensure that our homes remain warm, our lights stay on and our local grid continues to serve us reliably throughout the season.
JOE HENSON
CEO and General Manager
JANUARY 2026
5
co-op news
Rate schedule Service charge Single-phase.............................................. $35.50 Three-phase................................................... $47 Energy charge The first 500 kWh at........................$.10522/kWh The next 2,500 kWh at....................$.09772/kWh All remaining kWh at.......................$.09462/kWh Power cost tracker All rate classes All kWh at.............................................$0.02/kWh Security light If you have a security light, add: 175-watt mercury vapor...................$8.32/month 100-watt sodium vapor.....................$7.50/month 100-watt metal halide.......................$8.75/month 70-watt LED......................................$7.50/month Electric bills due by the 20th of each month. Members who pay by the 15th, or pay their bill by auto draft, will be entered in the monthly drawing for a $50 bill credit.
The easiest way to win a
$50 bill credit
NEW WINNER EACH MONTH!
It’s easy to enter our monthly $50 drawing! All Dubois REC members who pay their bill by the 15th of the month, using any payment option, will be automatically entered in the $50 monthly drawing. Members who
The winner will be notified, and their
pay by ACH/bank draft and recurring
name will be published here.
payments are also automatically included in the drawing. (Delinquent payments are not eligible.)
OCTOBER’S WINNER:
Richard H. Padgett, Otwell
Visit duboisrec.com for easy ways to pay your electric bill online.
DUBOIS REC HOSTS ‘TOUR OF OPPORTUNITY’ On Oct. 8, approximately 500 local high school freshmen from the four Dubois County school corporations embarked on a day-long “Tour of Opportunity.” During the event the students visited local businesses to learn about potential career opportunities within the county. Dubois REC provided our facility to the Builders Association of Dubois County to showcase various careers within the construction and trades fields. The students were given the opportunity to learn about several trades including plumbing, electrical, framing, and masonry. Students also spent time with a lending officer from a local bank, as well as a professional designer who presented opportunities in architecture and interior design.
6 JANUARY 2026
Do you depend on life support equipment? WE NEED TO KNOW If you rely on life-sustaining equipment, such as respirators or
co-op news
Get involved
know.
SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY ON THE DUBOIS REC BOARD OF DIRECTORS
It is particularly important for us
Want to make a difference in your
run in the election by completing a
community? Consider running for
petition signed by 20 other members,
a seat on the board of directors of
at least 60 days before the Annual
Dubois REC.
Meeting. If you feel you are qualified
dialysis machines, please let us
to be aware of these situations when the need for electrical power is especially crucial. We can keep you advised of extended or planned outages if we are aware of these special situations. However, this is not a guarantee of uninterrupted service! Despite our best efforts, an interruption in electric service may be caused by auto accidents, storms, wildlife, or other unpredictable circumstances. Therefore, our members who rely on life-sustaining equipment should also obtain emergency backup systems, such as batteries or generators. If you rely on a life support system,
On April 7, at the the 2026 Annual Meeting, members will elect directors to represent Districts 3, 4, and 6. The incumbent directors running for election are Mark Montgomery (District 3), David Rudolph (District 4) and Steven Speedy (District 6).
and are interested in serving your cooperative, pick up a petition from the Dubois REC office and begin collecting signatures. The completed petition must be submitted to Dubois REC after 7 a.m. on Dec. 28, 2025, and before 4 p.m. on Feb. 6, 2026.
Incumbent board members must file
More details about the election
a written notice of their intent to seek
process can be found in the Dubois
re-election at least 60 days before
REC bylaws, which we encourage
the Annual Meeting. Any Dubois REC
our members to review. A complete
member who lives in District 3, 4 or 6
publication of the Dubois REC bylaws
and meets the qualifications outlined
is posted on the co-op’s website,
in the Dubois REC bylaws can also
duboisrec.com.
please take a few moments right now and send us a copy of your doctor’s or home health care provider’s statement that you require this support. Tell us what type of equipment you have as well
CALENDARS AND ALMANACS We have two great publications to help you kick off the New Year!
as the type of emergency backup
While supplies last, members are
equipment in use. Be sure to
invited to stop by the Dubois REC
include your phone number so we
office and pick up a free copy of the
can contact you should the need
2026 Farmer’s Almanac and 2026
arise.
Cooperative Calendar of Student Art.
If you notified us in the past and no longer have the equipment in
The calendar is illustrated by students across the state of Indiana.
use, please let us know. In a major
Feel free to use our drive-thru for
storm, we would not want to provide
a quick and easy way to pick up
a priority to that service when others
these free publications.
may require it for a life-threatening
FREE
Cooperative Student Art Calendars and Farmers’ Almanacs
situation. JANUARY 2026
7
co-op news
Operation Round Up®
Small change, BIG IMPACT Did you know that allowing your electric bill to be rounded up to the next dollar can make a big impact in our community? The few extra cents from hundreds of members are added to the Operation Round Up fund, which can grow to thousands of dollars and is used for grants to fund local organizations and projects. Since the program began in 2011, more than $621,000 has been given back to the community! Dubois REC is pleased to announce that the most recent round of Operation Round Up grants totaled $4,500, which was awarded to two local organizations. The Dubois County Humane Society requested a grant to
purchase an anesthesia scavenging system plus installation, at the cost of $3,852. The Operation Round Up Board approved a grant in the amount of $2,500 to purchase the machine only. (Note: Installation must be completed by a volunteer or funded separately by the organization.) Patoka Valley Cadet Squadron — Civil Air Patrol requested financial assistance to purchase awards, badges, ribbons, etc. The Operation Round Up Board approved a grant of $2,000 to fund the project. The next meeting of trustees to review grant applications will be March 9. The deadline to submit an application for a grant is 4 p.m. on Feb. 27.
APPLY FOR A GRANT If you are part of a nonprofit group, volunteer fire department, youth program, food pantry or similar organization, please consider applying for a grant. Go to duboisrec.com, and look under the “Community” tab for Operation Round Up information and a downloadable application.
Operation Round Up FAQ What is Operation Round Up?
$68.90, your bill will be rounded up to
It is an ongoing charitable fundraising
$69, contributing 10 cents.
program to benefit worthwhile community projects.
The extra cents will be put into the Dubois Rural Electric Community
Dubois REC customers who round
Fund, Inc. The cost to you will be
up their electric bill to an even dollar
99 cents or less per month and will
amount donate those funds.
average about $6 a year per member.
How does the program work?
Individually it doesn’t sound like much,
Each month, members who wish to
but collectively it adds up in a hurry.
participate will allow Dubois Rural Electric Cooperative to automatically round up electric bills to the next even dollar amount. For example, if your bill is $68.51, your bill will be rounded up to $69, meaning that month’s contribution is 49 cents. If your bill is
8 JANUARY 2026
What are some possible uses for the fund? Examples of grant recipients would be fire departments, EMS, youth and school groups, youth camps, fundraisers for an individual’s medical needs, foundation, senior citizen
Answers to frequently asked questions about the Operation Round Up Program
groups and other various community programs and projects. How can I participate? You can call 812-482-5454 and request to enroll in this unique program.
energy
RESOLVE TO SAVE MONEY (AND ENERGY) IN THE NEW YEAR A
s you set your goals for the
system can provide more consistent
and cooling systems. This enables
coming year, you can resolve
service to keep you and your home
you to control settings and monitor
to keep more money in your wallet
comfortable.
energy use even when away from
— while saving energy and staying
Save on long-term costs: Most
home. Some appliances even alert
comfortable all year long.
newer appliances and HVAC
you if an issue arises.
Homeowners do not often think
systems are more energy efficient
By planning proactively, you can
about their appliances, such as
than those created over a decade
research the best options available
a water heater or HVAC system,
ago. They will use less energy than
for your replacement. You can visit
until they break. If your HVAC
older equipment, leading to savings
your electric cooperative’s website
system is over 15 years old or
in long-term energy costs. Plus,
to see if any upgrades qualify for
has experienced more frequent
most upgrades typically come with
rebates. You can also contact your
breakdowns, start planning for
a warranty, eliminating those costly
co-op’s energy advisor to begin the
a replacement now, rather than
repairs. With proper maintenance,
conversation.
waiting until it stops working during
it should operate optimally for
extreme weather. Your local electric
years to come. The combination of
cooperative may offer rebates for
improved efficiency and reliability
upgrading to a more energy-efficient
helps save you money over the life
product. You can see multiple
of the equipment.
advantages to your upgrade:
Greater control: Many new
Improved comfort: As appliances
appliances and HVAC systems
and HVAC systems age, they may
now feature internet connectivity,
struggle to maintain the same level
allowing for greater control.
of service as when they were new.
Appliances such as heat pump
Older water heaters may run out of
water heaters may already have
by Andrew Wray
hot water, or heating and cooling
this feature integrated into the device, while Wi-Fi thermostats
Energy Advisor
systems may struggle to get to the desired temperature. A new, modern
allow for remote control of heating
10 JANUARY 2026
Hendricks Power Cooperative
START THE NEW YEAR RIGHT
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county feature
Grant County Grant County has a rich history in motorcycling. Harley-Davidson first earned the nickname “hog” after the winners of the 1920 Cornfield Classic International Motorcycle Race in Marion, Indiana, took their victory lap with their team’s pig mascot. Grant County still celebrates its motorcycling heritage today with the Cornfield Classic, now a vintage motorcycle rally, and the Jonesboro River Rally. Both rallies draw hundreds of bikers each year.
COUNTY FACTS FOUNDED:
REVVING UP TRADITION Founded initially as Harrisburg in 1867, Gas City, Indiana, gained its current name after natural gas was discovered during the Indiana Gas Boom. When the Gas City Land Company was established on March 21, 1892, the small town of about 150 residents adopted the name Photo courtesy of Ducktail Run “Gas City.” Most of its natural gas reserves were largely depleted by the late 1800s due to inefficient extraction. Today, the city is best known for its annual “Ducktail Run,” a car show featuring vehicles from 1972 and earlier.
1831
NAMED FOR: Samuel and Moses Grant, captains who were killed during a battle in 1789 with Native Americans in Switzerland County
POPULATION: 66,674
Photo courtesy of Marion-Grant County Convention and Visitors Bureau
Public Domain
COUNTY SEAT: Marion
INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 27
INDIANA’S HOLLYWOOD REBEL FOLLOW THE GARFIELD TRAIL Marion is the hometown of Jim Davis, who created the comic strip, “Garfield.” To celebrate the lasagna-loving cat, Grant County’s Garfield Trail features 14 fiberglass statues throughout nearby cities. Visitors can dial 765-997-7034 for the trail’s cell phone tour, which features recordings providing more information about each of the 5-foot-tall statues. For example, one of the statues stands in front of Jonesboro City Hall, depicting Garfield wearing a firefighter hat and holding a fire hose beside a hydrant. It’s a tribute to Jonesboro’s role as the place of Grant County’s first fire department.
12 JANUARY 2026
Hollywood icon James Dean was born in Marion in 1931. After his television debut in a Pepsi commercial, Dean quit attending UCLA to pursue acting fulltime, where he starred in three major films — “Rebel Without a Cause,” “East of Eden,” and “Giant” — before his death at the age of 24 in a car accident. Every year, Fairmount, Indiana, hosts a memorial service, festival, and classic car show in his honor. Fans can tour the James Dean Museum, which houses his motorcycles and personal artifacts, or visit the James Dean Gallery featuring a collection of rare memorabilia and collectibles. Art enthusiasts can also admire three cut-out James Dean murals by John Cerney, a renowned mural artist from California. By Nicole Thomas
Marion
COOPERATIVE STUDENT ART CONTEST SUBMISSIONS
NEW BUILDS • ADDITIONS • REMODELS We’re here to help with all your residential construction needs.
The 2026 Cooperative Student Art Contest has
Entries for the Cooperative Student Art Contest are due by Friday, Feb. 27.
begun. Submissions for the contest should be mailed to the Indiana Connection office by Feb. 27. A first-place winner will be selected for each grade, K-12, and will receive $100. One “Best
Circleventerprise@gmail.com 260-228-3440 • Circleventerprise.com
Licensed • Insured • BBB Accredited
of Show” will be selected from the first-place
MARKETPLACE
winners and will win an extra $100. Additional artists from each grade will be selected for honorable mention awards and will receive $50.
Our Marketplace offers maximum exposure for your business or organization at a minimal cost.
The contest is open to Indiana public, private, or home-schooled kindergarten through 12th-grade students during the 2025-26 school year. A complete set of rules and required entry forms are available at indianaconnection.org/for-youth/art-contest.
Please contact Cheryl Solomon, 847-749-4875 or cheryl@amp.coop, for other small business advertising opportunities in Indiana Connection.
Order your
2026 CALENDAR TODAY! SEND US A CHECK AND A NOTE WITH YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS. COPIES OF THE COOPERATIVE CALENDAR OF STUDENT ART ARE $7 EACH.
Limited quantities of the 2026 Cooperative Calendar of Student Art are available at participating electric cooperative offices across the state.
The price includes shipping and Indiana sales tax. Make the check payable to “Indiana Electric Cooperatives.” Send your order to Indiana Electric Cooperatives, 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032. 2026 CALENDA PRODUCE D BY
Cover art by
Orders can also be submitted online at goiec.org/calendar.
Jane Olsen, kinderg arten division
winner
R
INDIANA CONNECT
ION FOR INDIANA
STUDENT ART
’S ELECTRIC COOPERA
TIVES
• Bartholomew County REMC • Carroll White REMC • Clark County REMC • Daviess-Martin County REMC • Dubois REC • Fulton County REMC • Harrison REMC • Heartland REMC • Jasper County REMC • Jay County REMC
• JCREMC • Kankakee Valley REMC • Kosciusko REMC • LaGrange County REMC • Marshall County REMC • Newton County REMC • Noble REMC • Orange County REMC • RushShelby Energy • Whitewater Valley REMC • WIN Energy REMC
JANUARY 2026
13
Indiana eats
ASPASIA COFFEE AND BAKE SHOP is making gluten-free dreams come true By Stephanie Bernaba
For anyone navigating life without gluten, the search for tasty treats that don't disappoint seems neverending. Between the dry cookies, crumbly cakes, and gritty bread, many gluten-free options fail to stand up — both figuratively and literally. Eva Tomlinson, who knew this frustration intimately, embarked on a journey to fix that.
SEEING AN OPPORTUNITY When Tomlinson retired from trade compliance in January 2020, the pandemic lockdown gave her plenty of time to bake. The catch? She couldn't eat any of it. "I wanted to figure out how to make gluten-free products because I couldn’t find any gluten-free products that I liked," Tomlinson recalled. After six months of meticulous experimentation, she developed two proprietary flour blends (bread and cake) that transformed both her retirement and her life. Friends who tasted her creations expressed both shock and delight, as they couldn't discern that they were gluten-free — the highest compliment a gluten-free baker can receive. More importantly, her friends and loved ones believed her baked goods were delicious enough to sell.
14 JANUARY 2026
By October 2022, Aspasia Coffee and Bake Shop opened its doors in Zionsville, backed by a separate production kitchen that launched months earlier. Today, the completely dedicated gluten-free facility serves a remarkably diverse menu. Morning pastries, cinnamon rolls, and breakfast casseroles give way to flatbreads, soups, and salads throughout the day. Custom cakes elevate weddings and celebrations, while Hawaiian and dinner rolls ship frozen nationwide.
CREATING FOR HER CUSTOMERS What sets Aspasia apart isn't just her gluten-free guarantee — it's Tomlinson's relentless pursuit of perfection and gracious responsiveness to her customers. "I listen to my customers," Tomlinson explained. "If they say, ‘I really want to try this,’ I give it a whirl. And, many times, it's turned into something that we offer on a regular basis." When someone requests a new flavor or item, she labors intensely to bring their idea to life. Magic bars were added to the permanent menu in this way, as was an impressive croquembouche for a recent wedding. "We're pretty tenacious," Tomlinson said, "so if we set our mind to something, we make it work."
This customer-centered approach extends to accommodating various dietary needs. Approximately 90 percent of Aspasia's offerings are dairy-free in addition to being gluten-free, with fully vegan options also available.
CONTINUED GROWTH The business has flourished, with wholesale accounts now comprising half of her sales. Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis serves Aspasia products through its catering partner. And this month, she will be adding various bagel sandwiches to the menu. Aspasia’s customer base has become so vast that Tomlinson is developing both loyalty and subscription programs. With every perfectly crafted pastry, Tomlinson proves that onceelusive gluten-free dreams can become reality.
ASPASIA COFFEE AND BAKE SHOP aspasiabakeshop.com Aspasia Zionsville
3091 US-421, Zionsville, IN 46077 317-344-2169
Aspasia Carmel PRODUCTION KITCHEN
(Pick up only, no seating) 9830 N. Michigan Rd, Ste C. Carmel, IN 46032 317-663-4538
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safety GENER AT OR S A FET Y: Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning
B E P RE PA RE D
for winter storms
outages, but using them improperly can cause carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Never run a generator,
By Chris Adam
Winter in Indiana often brings heavy
Generators are useful during
grill, camp stove, or any
snow, freezing rain, ice storms and
EMERGENCY KITS FOR HOME AND CAR
fuel-burning device inside
strong winds. These conditions
Having storm kits ready at home and in
not only create travel hazards
basement, or other
your vehicle can make a big difference
but can also cause electrical
enclosed space.
if you’re stuck inside for days or
dangers, warns Indiana’s electric
stranded on the road.
cooperatives.
your home, garage,
• Operate generators and store fuel outdoors, at
At home, stock at least two weeks
“Safety around electricity should be
least 20 feet away from
of supplies, including bottled water,
doors, windows, and
top of mind year-round,” said John
nonperishable food, emergency
garages.
Cassady, CEO of Indiana Electric
blankets, first aid supplies, flashlights,
Cooperatives. “In the winter, snow
a battery-powered or hand-crank radio,
and ice on power lines can cause
extra batteries, and basic toiletries.
them to snap or lead to broken
For your vehicle, pack at least three
CO buildup. Because
days of essentials such as blankets,
CO cannot be seen or
warm clothes, jumper cables, bottled
smelled, it can quickly
water, nonperishable food, sand or cat
cause illness or death.
poles. That’s why people must stay alert to the risks of downed power lines.”
• Opening doors and windows or running fans will not prevent
POWER LINE SAFETY
litter for traction, backup batteries, and
Keep these tips in mind if you
phone chargers.
encounter downed lines:
IF THE POWER GOES OUT
home, on every level, and
• Stay at least 35 feet away —
If an outage occurs, conserve heat by
outside sleeping areas for
about the length of three cars.
keeping doors closed to unused rooms
early warning.
• Never touch the line or anything touching it. • Call 911 immediately and warn others to keep clear. • Always assume the line is live and dangerous.
16 JANUARY 2026
and limiting trips outside. Also remember food safety. Once a refrigerator rises above 40 degrees, perishable foods may become unsafe. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to help food last longer.
• Install CO alarms in central areas of your
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food
Create your ideal rice bowl Unleash your culinary creativity with these tasty rice bowl recipes. Whether you love hearty chicken dishes or prefer colorful vegetarian options, these flavorful combinations are sure to satisfy your cravings and fill you up.
CHICKEN BURRITO RICE BOWL Glenda Ferguson, Paoli
2 cups white rice, uncooked 4 chicken thighs, boneless, skinless, cut into small chunks
½ red onion, chopped into small pieces 2 limes 1 can black beans,
½ tsp paprika
drained and rinsed
½ tsp chili powder
1 large tomato, chopped
2 Tbsp oil
6 oz shredded cheese
2 cups corn, frozen
1 cup shredded lettuce
2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare the rice according to package directions. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder. Cook the chicken in the oil until browned. Add ½ cup of water to the pan. In a small container, add the corn, cilantro, and red onion. Season with salt and pepper. Squeeze the juice from one of the limes onto the corn, then mix it all together. To prepare the rice bowl, spoon rice and black beans on the bottom. Add the chicken over the rice and beans. Top with the corn mixture, tomato, cheese, and lettuce. Season with another lime over the top.
18 JANUARY 2026
FOOD PREPARED BY INDIANA CONNECTION STAFF PHOTOS BY KILEY LIPPS
food
VEGETARIAN POWER BOWL Kristie Bishop, West Lafayette
½ cup brown
¼ cup garbanzo
rice, cooked
beans, canned
¼ cup peas, frozen
¼ cup guacamole
¼ cup mushrooms,
¼ cup salsa
fresh or canned Prepare the rice according to package directions. Heat the cooked rice with the peas, mushrooms, and garbanzo beans until hot. Add guacamole and your favorite salsa. The bowl can be enjoyed with tortilla chips or your favorite other kind of chips.
F O R T H E B U F FA L O C H I C K E N
O T H E R I N G R E DIEN TS
SLOW COOKER BUFFALO CHICKEN RICE BOWLS
1.5 lbs boneless,
1½ cups ranch
Staff submitted
½ cup Frank's Red Hot Sauce
rice, uncooked
¼ cup melted butter
1 cup shredded carrots
1 tsp paprika
½ cup blue
skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp garlic powder
1 cup brown or white
cheese crumbles
½ tsp salt To cook the chicken, place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the buffalo sauce, melted butter, and spices on top. Toss everything gently to coat the chicken. Cook on low for 6-7 hours, or high for 2-3 hours. Shred and keep set to warm until ready to serve. Cook the rice according to the package directions. To assemble the bowls, add some rice, shredded buffalo chicken, and carrots to a bowl. Drizzle with the ranch dressing and top with blue cheese crumbles.
JANUARY 2026
19
One of the books available through the program was written by Dolly Parton herself. “A Coat of Many Colors” is based off of her popular song.
T he
LITTLE LIBRARY that could Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library celebrates 30 years of inspiration
Photos courtesy of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
By Julie Young
S
he is one of the most revered and celebrated multi-hyphenates of
all time. In addition to being a global music icon and an award-winning singer/songwriter with over 3,000 compositions in her catalog, she is also an accomplished actress, best-selling author, successful businesswoman, and the largest employer in Sevier County, Tennessee. But for millions of children, Dolly Parton is simply “The Book Lady,” a title she wears with pride.
20 JANUARY 2026
The library offers a bilingual program with English and Spanish books in 21 states.
Launched in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library works to spark a love of reading in children everywhere by gifting a high-quality, ageappropriate book free of charge each month from birth to age five. What began as a local program for a few hundred children in her home county became a national effort in 2000 and, since then, has expanded into an international initiative that delivers more than 3 million books each month to children across the United States, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Since its inception, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has gifted over 300 million books worldwide and has no plans of slowing down any time soon. “You can never get enough books into the hands of enough children,” Parton said.
ONCE UPON A TIME As most fans of her music know, Parton grew up in a one-room cabin on a rural ridge in the Great Smoky Mountains near the town of Sevierville. While her mother, Avie Lee (née) Owens, took care of the home and cared for the children, her
Although she was a big dreamer with
However, it was her deep admiration
musical ambitions at a young age,
for her father, combined with an
Parton knew that her key to success
awareness of the doors that literacy
was staying in school and earning her
could open, that inspired the “Jolene”
diploma. She was proud to be the first
singer to create Dolly Parton’s
member of her family to graduate from
Imagination Library. It has evolved
high school. One day later, she moved
into the flagship program of The
to Nashville to start her music career,
Dollywood Foundation and has been
and the rest, as they say, is history.
recognized for improving literacy
father, Robert Lee Parton Sr., worked
After achieving unparalleled
as a sharecropper, tobacco farmer,
success in music and film, Parton
and occasional construction worker
sought ways to give back to others.
to keep his family clothed and fed.
She established The Dollywood
Despite never learning how to read or
Foundation in 1988 to inspire children
write, Parton described her father as
in her home county to achieve
one of the smartest men she had ever
educational success. She created
met and credited him with instilling
the Buddy Program, which offered a
in his children a sense of hard work,
$500 incentive to seventh and eighth-
humility, and pride. However, she also
grade students who graduated from
knew that his inability to read took an
high school. The program was so
emotional toll on him and crippled him
successful that it reduced the dropout
from reaching his full potential in life.
rate from 35 to 6%.
habits, kindergarten readiness, and supporting grade-level reading by the third grade. From its humble beginnings, the Imagination Library has experienced exponential growth over the past three decades. In the U.S. alone, the library reaches one in seven children under the age of five, which is not only an achievement that reflects remarkable growth, but also showcases the power of a simple, lifechanging gift: a book. continued on page 22
JANUARY 2026
21
The library offers a variety of books to children from birth to 5 years old.
known and respected program allowed her to combine many of her passions — early literacy, philanthropy, and communitybuilding partnerships — in the best possible way. “I have been promoting literacy my entire career, and a love of books and reading offers the foundation for literacy skills that set children up for future success,” she said. “Encouraging increased interaction
continued from page 21 “Before he passed away, my Daddy told me that the Imagination Library was probably the most important thing I had ever done,” Parton said. “And that’s saying a lot!”
provide additional support to
with children and their caregivers
expand access. They help fund and
around books and reading strengthens
coordinate statewide efforts while
their bond and promotes positive
supporting volunteers and staff to
brain development.”
ensure that all children — regardless
Although the Imagination Library has
of location — can benefit from free reading materials.
been available in Indiana for over 20 years, it has only been a statewide
SUPPORTING CHARACTERS
“The average cost of the program per
program since August 2023. Before
Naturally, Parton doesn’t do it
child, per month is $2.60 or around
that time, only 54 counties participated
alone. Although The Dollywood
$31 per child per year. In states
in the program, with many of these
Foundation covers the overhead and
where there is a state match, the
counties having limited coverage.
administration expenses, coordinates
cost decreases to $1.30 per child per
Today, every county in the state has
the Blue Ribbon Book Selection,
month to around $15 for the whole
an Imagination Library program, and
provides the secure online database,
year,” said Katie Mullins, community
thanks to the work of local and state
and manages ordering and fulfillment,
engagement coordinator for Dolly
partners, enrollment has doubled
the real heroes of Dolly Parton’s
Parton’s Imagination Library
over the past two years from 70,000
Imagination Library are the thousands
of Indiana.
to 138,000. To date, nearly 2.9
of local partners and organizations that have taken her dream and made it their own. Local program partners cover the wholesale cost of the books, as well as the postage to mail them, while also promoting the program and enrolling children in their communities. Statewide partners (where applicable)
22 JANUARY 2026
Mullins joined Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in 2023, bringing an extensive background in public
million books have been mailed to Hoosier children of all socioeconomic backgrounds.
libraries and a firm belief that every
Mullins said there is often a
child should grow up in a home
misconception about who is eligible to
filled with books. She said that the
take part in Dolly Parton’s Imagination
opportunity to be part of such a well-
Library, and the answer is, everyone!
The universality of the program is deeply personal to Parton. As a child, she knew her family struggled to make ends meet, but she didn’t realize how poor they were until they began receiving handouts from others. Because of that experience, Parton decided that the Imagination Library would be for every child and not merely for those “in need.” “After 30 years, we’ve seen the power of that decision. A universal program means that more books reach more children overall and, importantly, even more books find their way into the hands of children who need them the most,” Mullins said.
Give a child the gift of books Want to sign up the child in your life for the Imagination Library? Visit imaginationlibrary.com/check-availability to determine if the program is available in your area.
continued on page 24
JANUARY 2026
23
Parton reads to a group of children at the Library of Congress in 2018.
continued from page 23
chant, was one of Parton’s favorites as
respected early childhood experts.
a child, and she said she saw herself
Over the course of a three-day review,
in the title character. Each subsequent
the committee evaluates each title
book is thoughtfully selected through
and selects those that best represent
a carefully developed process, with
outstanding children’s literature.
age appropriateness as the guiding
Books with political, overtly religious,
principle. Selections also reflect the
or polarizing themes are excluded
“They’ve all shared the experience
values of The Dollywood Foundation
to keep the focus on the mission:
of reading the same books, creating
and Parton herself — love, respect,
to inspire a love of reading. Parton
a sense of connection and leveling
appreciation, kindness, and empathy.
herself is the author of two books in
the playing field for every child,”
Braille and audio Imagination Library
the Library: “I Am a Rainbow”, which
Mullins said.
books are also available through a
discusses the various moods a child
partnership with the American Printing
experiences, and “Coat of Many
House for the Blind (APH).
Colors,” a literary version of her hit
Another beautiful outcome is that children, regardless of their socioeconomic status, start kindergarten on a more level playing field.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT BOOKS When children sign up for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the first book they receive is “The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper. The story of a little train’s optimism and hard work, embodied in its “I think I can”
24 JANUARY 2026
According to Mullins, each year, the library’s exclusive publisher, Penguin Random House, presents new children’s titles to the book selection committee, a group of highly
song about bullying and acceptance.
A SUCCESS BY ANY MEASURE Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been the recipient of numerous awards and accolades, including
By the numbers the 2000 Honors Award from
time “The Book Lady” sends out
the Association of American
another story. Some parents
Publishers and the 2012 Best
cherish the smile and squeal that
Practices Award from the Library
accompany each new arrival,
of Congress. Although her own
while others note how their child’s
children were older when Dolly
confidence grows with every story.
Parton’s Imagination Library
1995 The year the Imagination Library was founded
OVER 300 MILLION
Parton understands that parents
was launched in her county, Mullins has a niece and nephew in Tippecanoe County who are eager participants in the program.
The number of books gifted worldwide
and caregivers are a child’s first
since the library’s inception
teacher, and they set the course
OVER 138,000
for developing their child’s love of books and reading. She also
“My niece stops everything when
knows that reading to a child from
it is time to get her new book from
birth to age five not only promotes
the mailbox, and immediately her
their future reading ability, but also
parents have to read it to her,”
their academic success.
Mullins said. “Then at bedtime, she eagerly snuggles in to once again read her new book.”
The number of Hoosier children enrolled in the program
NEARLY 2.9 MILLION The number of books gifted to
“The first step is always the
Hoosier children so far
hardest,” Parton said, “but if you can read, you can teach yourself
It’s an experience that is replayed
$2.60
anything!”
The cost of the program for each
countless households every
child per year
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Best of Indiana
NOMINATION FORM To celebrate the uniqueness of Indiana, please exclude national chains from your responses. Don’t forget to include the name of the town in which each answer is located. Feel free to tell us why you
Indiana Connection Readers’ Choice Awards
Best of
a n a i Ind
made your nomination. Use an additional piece of paper if needed.
BED AND BREAKFAST/COUNTRY INN:
BREWERY:
CAMPGROUND:
COMMUNITY FESTIVAL:
Indiana Connection wants to recognize some of our readers’ favorite places in
LIVE THEATER:
an upcoming “Best of Indiana” feature. To nominate your favorites, fill out the form below and mail it to Indiana
MUSEUM:
Connection at 11805 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, IN 46032. You can also submit your nominations online at
PLACE TO TAKE THE KIDS:
indianaconnection.org/2026-best-ofindiana-awards. Nomination forms are due by
RESTAURANT:
March 1. Our readers will vote on the top-nominated places in future issues. Send any questions to Editor Britt Davis at bdavis@indianaec.org. Help
TENDERLOIN SANDWICH (NAME THE SPECIFIC PLACE):
us showcase some of the places that make the Hoosier State great!
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Hoosier Energy news
A REASON TO
Members of the 2025 HEATS Lineman graduating class pose following the ceremony in French Lick on Oct. 17, 2025.
CELEBRATE
HEATS program honors 60 graduates The Hoosier Energy Apprenticeship Training & Safety
Hawhee of Southern Indiana Power; Jacob Pyne of UDWI
(HEATS) program held its 2025 graduation ceremony on
REMC; Ryan Chappell and Abrem Losekamp of Whitewater
Oct. 17 in French Lick.
Valley REMC; and Kyle Blann, Chase Donaldson, and Alex
It was the largest attendance at a graduation since 2022,
Schnepper of WIN Energy REMC.
when three years’ worth of graduates were honored due to
The Meter Program graduates: Waidus Hughes of AES;
COVID-19 restrictions.
Travis Uhl of Clark County REMC; Andrew Korte of Harrison
The 2025 ceremony had 60 graduates and 363 attendees. That brings the total number of HEATS graduates to 924 since the program’s inception in 1974, with another 184 apprentices currently enrolled across the disciplines of Line, Meter, Substation, MSR, and Fiber. Highlighting this year’s graduates were a trio of
REMC; Tom Gettinger and Lance Koontz of Henry County REMC; Steve D’Esposito, Clint House, Brandon Robinson, Jeremy Ruhe, Scott Smith, and Brent Stevenson of Hoosier Energy; and Eric Siebert of Whitewater Valley REMC. Substation Program graduates: Tony Bonham and Evan Goshorn of Hoosier Energy.
Academic Award winners:
The MSR Program graduates were: Thera Desmond,
• Jacob Pyne of Utilities District of Western Indiana REMC (UDWI) for the Lineman Program
Jessica Kaufer, Jamie Lundy, and Jessica Miller of Clark
• Brent Stevenson of Hoosier Energy in the Meter Program
REMC; Craig Adams and Elizabeth Kempf of Dubois REC;
• Tony Bonham of Hoosier Energy in the Substation Program
Melissa True of Henry County REMC; Cynthia Frainee
The 2025 Lineman Program graduates: Harley Applegate and Dylan Conrad of Clark County REMC; Jarrett Arvin and Dwain Jolliff of Daviess-Martin County REMC; Garret Berg of Dubois REC; Logan Murphy, Brandon Pace, and Derek Saunders of Harrison REMC; Jason Burton, Drew Horning, and Cory Murphy of Henry County REMC; Chad Campbell, Alex Hopf, and Colin Lane of Hoosier Energy; Kevin Huffman and Peyton Olds of Southeastern Indiana REMC; Jarrett
28 JANUARY 2026
County REMC; Karen Padgett of Daviess-Martin County Dave Satori of Harrison REMC; Heather Ferguson and and Kristin Ramirez of JCREMC; Brandyn Weaver of RushShelby Energy; Sara Waggoner of South Central Indiana REMC; Stacie Keppel, Robin Monday, and Steven Sieverding of Southeastern Indiana REMC; Andy Sommer of Southern Indiana Power; and Jessica Brown and Stacy Henry of UDWI REMC. The inaugural Fiber Program graduates: Paul Trenkamp of Decatur County REMC, and Aaron Allen and Tyler Wright of Southeastern Indiana REMC.
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Students: Mark your calendar for a chance to attend this unique summer opportunity! High School juniors can apply for an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., on the 2026 Youth Tour, June 14-21. Applications are now available at duboisrec.com.
Service
anniversary
WINTER SAFETY Heating Pads and Electric Blankets Heating pads and electric blankets cause almost 500 fires each year. Almost all of these fires involve electric blankets that are more than 10 years old. There are two types of personal heating appliances, heating pads that are placed directly on the mattress and electric blankets. They are not meant to be used interchangeably or at the same time. SAFETY TIPS: • Look for dark, charred, or frayed spots or one where the electric cord is cracked or frayed. Replace any worn or old heating pad or electric blanket. • Do not allow anything on top of a heating pad or electric blanket when it is in use. When covered by anything, including other blankets or pets, electric blankets may overheat.
GARRET BERG
Journeyman Lineman 5 Years
• Never fold electric blankets when in use. Folded or tucked in blankets could overheat and cause a fire. • Heating appliances should never be left unattended or used while sleeping. Source: esfi.org
JANUARY 2026
29
outdoors LON GIN G FO R
nostalgic snow days W
e live in a rural county,
ushering them out the door leads
shoveling doesn’t spoil the magic.
one known for its hills
to more education than having
I walk through my woods to the
and ravines, its hairpin turns and
them sit with a glowing screen as
creak of bending trees, the light
hidden culverts, its covered bridges
a companion. Now that I think of
whistles of the wind, and the lonely
taken at a walk, its narrow gravel
it, from personal experience in the
caws of crows, the latter bringing
roads still named by family rather
art of sledding, snow days taught
back memories of the poet Robert
than number.
me quite a bit about the physical
Frost and his line about the “dust
sciences of weight distribution,
of snow.” I catch sight of my breath
friction, and speed. There was time
in the crisp air, hear the crunch
to read, of course, and I loved that
of my boots in the yet unbroken
as my play clothes dried over a
snow crust, feel the bite of the raw
warm furnace register.
breeze as it reddens my now-
Not so long ago, wintertime nearly always gave us a day or two when we needed to shut down a while just to let the snowplows open the roads; it was, to us anyway,
wrinkled face.
a pleasant diversion from the
Now, as four-wheel drive becomes
usual. Schools were closed, soup
more commonplace, most of us can
Years ago, minus the wrinkles,
heated on the stove, the mail went
get to where we want to go. The
at a time when even flannel
undelivered, and our sleds came off
sight of unbroken snow on a road is
shirts, mismatched cotton gloves,
garage walls.
rare. The sound of revving engines
scratchy wool long johns, and
replacing the muffled silence of
bread wrapper-covered feet could
a day when it used to be so quiet
only go so far to keep me dry and
you could hear the lightest wisps of
warm, I think I already knew that
snowflakes on a coated shoulder.
snow days were a treasure.
I long for no blizzard, no downed power lines, no slide-offs into the ditches, but I do wish we could feel the same way for winter that we used to. Of course, now our
I still look forward to a day with
children and grandchildren must
snow. Retired, with fewer places I
atone for “snow days,” often in the
have to be, I enjoy my cup of coffee
form of “e-learning,” but I think that
by a cabin window. Even a little
30 JANUARY 2026
Mike Lunsford is a freelance columnist, feature writer, and photographer based in Parke County. Contact Lunsford at hickory913@gmail.com.
36 FEBRUARY 2019