For the past couple of months, we asked readers to submit their Fourth of July traditions and memories. Some of the submissions are featured on pages 26 and 27. Reading about other people’s celebrations and cherished memories with their families was fun. For my family, July 4th was always a day to get together and… Continue reading.

By Natalie Derrickson Give your favorite feline an outlet for scratching that’s pet parent-approved A cat’s inclination to scratch might be natural, but when it reduces your favorite pillow to shreds, you’re ready to do anything to put it to a stop. OFFER APPROPRIATE SCRATCHING SURFACES Without a designated scratching spot, cats will find something… Continue reading.

By Nicole Thomas Shelby County is home to several of Central Indiana’s firsts, like St. Vincent DePaul, one of the first Catholic churches built in the area in 1839. Indiana’s first railroad, built in the 1830s, passed through the county’s seat, Shelbyville, to connect Madison — the largest city along the Ohio River — to… Continue reading.

By Brian D. Smith It’s hard to envision Indiana’s history from old films and photographs. Did our ancestors really inhabit a colorless world, like Dorothy before she opened the door to the Technicolor land of Oz? Obviously not, but the old days are more relatable when we experience them firsthand instead of just reading about… Continue reading.

Traveling is more fun and relaxing when you don’t have to worry about whether your home is safe and secure. Here are five ways to prevent mishaps and save energy during your absence. Create the illusion that someone is home. Ask a trusted neighbor to pick up newspapers, mail, and home deliveries that might arrive… Continue reading.

Before you depart, make sure you’re fully prepared for unexpected problems or emergencies. STOCK YOUR VEHICLE Even a well-maintained vehicle can break down, so it’s advisable to put together an emergency roadside kit to carry with you. A cell phone tops the list of suggested emergency kit contents since it allows you to call for… Continue reading.

Summer road trips can create ever-lasting memories. Make sure those memories are positive by checking for potential issues suggested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) before you start your journey. RECALLS NHTSA’s Recalls Look-up Tool lets you enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) to quickly learn if your vehicle has a critical safety… Continue reading.

By Britt Davis Father’s Day is June 16. Last month, I talked about the wonderful women in my life. This month is for the papas. My dad, Kevin, is one of my loudest supporters. He encouraged any dream I had growing up, including when I went through a Sherlock Holmes phase and wanted to be… Continue reading.

For Hannah Carter, it was love at first sight, and it all started the summer after her high school graduation. An internship at Orange County REMC blossomed into a full-blown career. “After that first summer working here, I told my mom I wanted to work at the co-op. I wanted to stay there full time,”… Continue reading.

By Natalie Derrickson Millions of vibrant blooms in hot pinks, cool purples, and sunny yellows stand tall, sharply defining their esteemed role in a thoughtfully designed pattern installed by 200-plus thoughtful and generous volunteers. These aren’t just any old public garden beds. They are the Quilt Gardens along the Heritage Trail in Elkhart County. Blossoming… Continue reading.

By Nicole Thomas Spanning 400 square miles in central Indiana, Clinton County features historical buildings, recreational parks, and rural charm with more than 200,000 acres of farmland. Its county seat in Frankfort is home to the only high school in the country whose mascot is the Hot Dogs, which won ESPN’s best Indiana nickname in… Continue reading.

Summer is a busy time for Hoosiers. School is out, the warm weather is here, and everyone is ready to spend time outside. It’s also a time for vacation. Instead of planning an expensive trip outside of state lines, consider the many experiences available closer to home. Check out the following pages for special offerings… Continue reading.