I make it a point to get out into our co-op communities. There is one topic that seems to come up everywhere I go. Whether I’m meeting with directors, talking with community leaders, or visiting with our member co-ops, the conversation often turns to growth. New investment. New businesses. New opportunities. And increasingly, questions about… Continue reading.

BY JULIE YOUNG According to the American Pet Products Association, 95 million American households own at least one pet, and they are projected to spend $165 billion on those companions in 2026, including food, supplies, veterinary care, grooming, and other services. This investment in pet care is driving new trends. High-tech devices High-tech pet gadgets… Continue reading.

BY JULIE YOUNG Fostering an animal not only provides a safe, loving environment for socialization but also frees up shelter space and allows you to enjoy the companionship of a new friend without the permanent commitment.  Getting started After deciding on the type of animal you’re interested in fostering, research local shelters that offer fostering… Continue reading.

BY JULIE YOUNG At some point, most children express a desire to care for a pet. Although they promise to feed, water, and play with the proposed animal, a pet is a big responsibility, and it’s important to make this step a positive experience for everyone involved.  Age appropriate Experts say it is important to… Continue reading.

I’ve mentioned before in this column that I have a degree in accounting. It’s probably no surprise, then, that I’m a bit of a numbers guy. But here’s something you might not expect: the numbers themselves are rarely the most interesting part of my job. The conversations behind them are. One of my favorite conversations… Continue reading.

By Julie Young Although fireworks displays are a traditional part of our Independence Day celebrations, nearly 15,000 people are treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries each year.  While some accidents are the result of amateurs attempting to launch professional-grade explosives, others are caused by legal fireworks that stay on the ground and can be… Continue reading.

Summer has a way of drawing our attention to the things right in front of us — the county fair, an evening ballgame, a weekend at the lake, a family reunion. These are memories of my Indiana summers growing up. What we rarely think about are all the things working quietly in the background that… Continue reading.

Whenever I can get outside, I am there. Just last month, I completed a half-marathon. Most of my training was outside, and I experienced all kinds of weather along the way. Maybe that’s why I enjoy summer so much. But from a professional standpoint, it can put us to the test. As temperatures rise, so… Continue reading.

Planning a vacation is exciting, but it can also raise concerns about leaving your home. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring that your home remains safe and secure while you’re away. Here are six tips to help keep your home safe while you enjoy some time off: Secure your doors and… Continue reading.

Wherever your travels may take you, be prepared when it comes to your health before and during travel with these tips from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Before you go Check your destination for country-specific health risks and safety concerns. You should also know your health status before you make travel… Continue reading.

By Jeff Conrad In Indiana, the month of May brings a familiar rhythm. The Indianapolis 500 captures our attention, and with it comes the language of racing, preparation, precision, teamwork, and strategy. Drivers don’t just show up on race day and hope for the best. Success is built through months of planning, testing, and coordination… Continue reading.

Electrical safety doesn’t stop at the front door. Outdoor activities — especially during warmer months — can bring people closer to potential electrical hazards. National Electrical Safety Month is an ideal time to review outdoor safety practices that protect both people and property. One of the most serious outdoor risks involves coming into contact with… Continue reading.