The first successful U.S. cooperative was organized in 1752 when Benjamin Franklin formed the Philadelphia Contributionship for the Insurance of Houses from Loss by Fire — the nation’s oldest continuing cooperative. Electric cooperatives began because it was not cost-effective for investor-owned utllities to string power lines into rural areas in the 1930s.  Indiana Electric Cooperatives,… Continue reading.

Co-ops deliver electricity, sell produce, provide loans, and arrange for housing, health care and more. But despite these differences, they all have one thing in common, especially during National Cooperative Month, — seven cooperative principles: Voluntary and open membership: Available to all who can reasonably use their services. Democratic member control: Each member has one… Continue reading.

You might be surprised by the number of co-ops around you. Co-ops have been formed to sell produce and electricity, offer financial and banking services, provide housing and health care, and so much more. So, where did the bright idea for co-ops come from? It’s a matter of principles (seven to be exact!). The modern… Continue reading.

Muzzleloaders and bumbershoots make Ripley County burst with the curious combo of clouds of black powder and showers of color this month. The county, in the southeast pocket of the state, has long been known for hosting the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association in Friendship with its spring and fall competitions. The NMLRA was established… Continue reading.

Air leakage rating: The air leakage rating is a measure of how much air leaks through the crack between the window sash and frame. The rating reflects the leakage from a window exposed to a 25 mile per hour wind and is measured in cubic feet per minute per linear foot of sash crack. Annual… Continue reading.

Air leaks around the home can add 10 percent to your heating bill. Find the leaks in your house and plug them. Some places to look: Windows. On a windy day, light a stick of incense and hold it near the window. If the smoke travels horizontally, your window is leaking. Seal, caulk or weather… Continue reading.

Just as you tune up your car for the winter, you also need to tune up your heating system for the cold weather. Here are some things you can do to ensure your comfort and safety this winter.  Have a professional check out your furnace to ensure its safety, especially if you use gas, propane… Continue reading.

For many people, Labor Day is a day of rest. For others, it’s a day to catch up on outdoor home projects before the season changes. Faulty extension cords are often a source of injury when working outside. So are metal ladders coming into contact with an electrical source. By following the tips below, you… Continue reading.

Late summer and early fall often bring tornadoes and floods to our part of the country. That’s why it’s smart to take precautions with your home’s electrical system. Keep in mind that debris from storms can easily ignite if it comes into contact with downed power lines, especially if electrical wires are severed. Also, standing… Continue reading.

Seared into the memories of most folks over the age of 25 are where they were, what they were doing, and who they were with as the unspeakable acts of terror were carried out the morning of Sept. 11, 2001.  That is, of course, the day the United States was attacked by Islamic terrorists who… Continue reading.

Seeking a getaway made in the shade? Shades State Park is a place that lives up to its name. Located in west north-central Indiana straddling the Montgomery/Parke/Fountain county junction, this nature lover’s paradise is a favorite for hikers and canoeists. Its beautiful sandstone cliffs overlook Sugar Creek and trails take you through shady ravines. Trails go… Continue reading.

Taking care of your teeth may be part of YOUR daily routine, but do you also give your pet’s choppers that same kind of care? You should. Just as it is for humans, dental health is important to your pet’s overall health. Dental issues can lead to — or be a sign of — other… Continue reading.