34 minute read
Hendricks County
Plainfield Police Department Grants Make-A-Wish
Caleb and Kaden Ratliff celebrate with their new friends from the Plainfield Police Department.
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By Melissa Gibson
Caleb and Kaden Ratliff, ten-year-old twins with cystic fibrosis, got a chance of a lifetime last week, joining the Plainfield Police Department on an adventure.
The two thought they were going to a meet and greet with Corporal Rob Pritchard and his K9, Jocko and did learn a thing or two about giving Jocko commands and the different things the K9 can do for the police department and the community.
However, things took a turn when Pritchard received a call to stop a carjacking in progress. The man happened to be wearing his K9 bite suit for the job and the Ratliff twins were able to command Jocko to attack.
Just as soon as the carjacking suspect was under control, the notorious bank robber, Gentleman John Glover speeds past the team and a car chase ensues… right into the Plainfield Training Academy’s test track.
As Glover is arrested Pritchard, Caleb and Kaden learn of two children, lost in the woods but as luck would have it, Jocko is trained to find them and the team saves the day.
As the group drives into Plainfield’s Hummel Park, they’re greeted by several from the Plainfield Police Department and dozens of families from the community, thanking them for a job well done and keeping our community safe.
“I’ve done hundreds of programs and K9 meet and greets,” Pritchard said. “One of our day shift supervisors, Dawn Veirs is friends with the boys’ home healthcare nurse and she called me and said their dream is to meet a police K9. Well, I do that all the time, so that was a pretty low bar. We had to do something really special.”
Pritchard came up with a plan to give the twins an experience they’ll never forget and was thankful for all the friends and co-workers that immediately got on board.
“Everyone was so eager to help,” Pritchard said. “People are incredible and we’ve had everything from two professional photographers volunteering their services to a person making T-shirts to hand out.”
Though the incompetent carjacker was Prichard’s father and the notorious bank robber and lost children were friends, Pritchard said the entire thing was played 100 percent serious. He met with each person involved ahead of time and created a stringent timeline for each character to be in place at the perfect time.
It worked. The boys had a blast and shared the entire adventure with the crowd at Hummel Park.
“I can’t imagine being that young and knowing your prognosis,” Pritchard said. “This has just been amazing. All of these people that I barely know or don’t know at all and the boys don’t know are dropping everything they have going on to show up and cheer and clap for them. Maybe we’re not as divided as people might have you believe. Our commonality is greater than our differences.” The twins know their prognosis and haven’t let it stop them. Mom, Elizabeth Bennett, said they were diagnosed at 12 days old and have spent weeks at a time in the hospital for a variety of medical issues.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that affects the respiratory and digestive system with a survival age median around 30 years old.
“The boys know they’re not going to live a long life,” Bennett said. “But once you meet them, you’ll see, they’re just different. Not just because they’re my kids. They melt your heart because they care so much about everyone else.”
Bennett said the isolation the twins experience is similar to what most of us experienced throughout the pandemic.
“They always wear masks, stay six feet away from other people, they never get to go to parties and a lot of people are afraid of inviting them to things because of their medical problems. They’re very isolated, so it’s nice that they have each other,” Bennett said. “But they’ve always looked at it like other people have it worse than they do. They talk about some kids don’t have clothes to wear. They’re always thinking of others and thanking people for what they’re doing for them.”
They’ve also always wanted to be policemen and “think the world of them” according to Mom.
“What Officer Rob and everyone else did is just amazing and the boys loved it,” Bennett said.
Workshop On Rotational Grazing
Hendricks County Soil & Water Conservation District invites livestock producers to a rotational grazing workshop July 31 at 5:30 p.m. at Iron Brothers Farms LLC.
The session, led by grazing land specialist Susannah Hinds of the Natural Resource Conservation Service, delves into grass identification, principles of rotational grazing and pasture management.
The evening workshop, funded by Clean Water Indiana, includes an equipment options discussion.
Iron Brothers Farms is found at 1288 S. CR 600 W, Danville.
Make reservations at teri.lents@in.nacdnet.net, or call the SWCD office at 317-745-2555, ext. 3.
Named to Dean’s List
Rebecca Fales of Avon has been named to the dean’s list for the spring 2021 semester at Carthage College in Wisconsin. Dean’s list honors are accorded to Carthage students who achieve a minimum 3.5 grade-point average while carrying at least 14 credit hours during a semester.
On Dean’s List At Findley
The following local students were named to the spring 2021 dean’s list at the University of Findlay in Ohio: Andrew Boulton of Brownsburg Natalie Dayharsh of Coatesville
Graduates From Carthage
Laura Sanders of Brownsburg recently graduated from Carthage College. in Wisconsin.
On Bradley U. Dean’s List
The following local students were named the Spring 2021 Dean’s List for Bradley University in Illinois:
Veronika Roberts of Brownsburg, majoring in Public Health Education.
Matthew Gaby of Avon, majoring in Computer Science Computer Game Technology.
Jared Riddle of Danville, majoring in Industrial Engineering.
Named To President’s List
Kendra Springs, of Plainfield, was named to the College of Charleston Spring 2021 President’s List. Springs is majoring in Chemistry .
To qualify for President’s List (Highly Distinguished), students must earn a GPA of 3.800 or higher and complete a minimum of 14 semester hours.
Brownsburg Parks Offers Fitness Classes
Brownsburg Parks offers a variety of fitness classes designed to keep you active and moving!
Dance Fit with Erin, Mondays and Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m., Arbuckle Acres Park, Shelter 7
Walk and Talk Series: Care for the Caretaker, Wednesdays in May, 7-8 p.m.,| Arbuckle Acres Park, Shelter 8
Qigong Classes, Tuesdays, May 18-Nov. 30, | 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Bundy Lodge, Arbuckle Acres Park
Tai Chi Classes, Tuesdays, May 18-Nov. 30, 11 a.m. to noon, Bundy Lodge, Arbuckle Acres Park
Beginner Yoga, Thursdays, May 20-Nov. 18, 9-10 a.m., Bundy Lodge, Arbuckle Acres Park
Chair Yoga, Thursdays, May 20-Nov. 18, 10:15- 11:15 a.m., Bundy Lodge, Arbuckle Acres Park
Slow-Flow Yoga, Thursdays, May 20-Nov. 18, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Bundy Lodge, Arbuckle AcresPark
Restorative Yoga, Thursdays, May 20-Nov. 18, 6:45-7:45 p.m., Bundy Lodge, Arbuckle Acres Park
Nature Therapy (Shinrin-Yoku Session), Monthly, first and third Friday and Sunday | 9:30 – 11 a.m., Outdoor Classroom, Williams Park
Outdoor Group Meditation, Monthly, first and third Friday and Sunday, 8-9 a.m., Outdoor Classroom, Williams Park
Learn more and register at brownsburgparks.com
Soak Up the Sun & the Water But Avoid the Shock
You’ve waited to open your pool, bring out the boats and soak up the sun! But before you dive into all the summer fun, remind yourself and your family of the dangers lurking inside pools and lakes. Remember: water and electricity don’t mix!
Safety in or around pools
It’s easy to hop out of the pool and not think about turning up the music or jumping in and making a huge splash all over nearby electrical appliances. But doing so can be dangerous. Instead, use battery-operated appliances or waterproof covers for items near the pool when possible. This way, you and your family can enjoy the day without worry of electrical shock!
If someone in the pool feels electricity -- almost like a stinging feeling – or appears to have been shocked, do not dive in because you could be shocked, too. Instead, turn off the power and use a non-metal shepherd’s hook to pull him or her out of the water to safety.
When using long-handled pool cleaning equipment, always look up and around to make sure there are no low-hanging power lines connected to a home or pool house nearby.
Safety in or around lakes/rivers
The same safety concerns are in play around lakes and rivers, too, along with a few more.
Avoid running electric appliances with extension cords out to where you are sunbathing/swimming. They present both a shock and trip hazard.
Avoid swimming or going in the water near boats plugged into shore power or docks with electrical services. If you are in the water and feel electricity, stay calm and swim to shore if you can but do not touch a metal ladder or any other metal objects.
If someone is in the water and is shocked, do not jump in. Turn off the power source and use an insulated device to attempt to remove him or her from the water. Electrical shock can cause paralysis and the victim will need assistance immediately.
Staying safe while near the water is simple but these tips can be easily forgotten. So, create a checklist for your family and friends to review before jumping in the deep end.
About Hendricks Power Cooperative: Hendricks Power Cooperative provides electricity and energy services to over 35,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in west central Indiana. Formed in 1936, the cooperative is owned and controlled by members they serve. For more information regarding Hendricks Power Cooperative and other related service, please visit www.hendrickspower.com.
On Dean’s List At Missouri U.
Reighan Grandolfo of Avon was namted to the dean’s list for the spring 2021 semester at Missouri State University. Criteria include enrollment in at least 12 credit hours during the spring semester and at least a 3.50 grade point average (on a 4.00 scale).
HCHS Pet Food Pantry
Hendricks County Humane Society’s Pet Food Pantry is still operating. You don’t have to be an existing Pet Food Pantry recipient - just call 317-745-3338, answer some simple informational questions, and you can receive dog or cat food (& litter) as available. Arrangements will be made for pickup.
The HCHS Pet Food Pantry is part of the County Food Pantry Coalition, and also participates in three Gleaners Mobile Food Pantry distributions. For more information about the Hendricks County Humane Society, visit the website at hendrickshumane.org.
Rumi
Loan Medical Equipment
Hendricks County Senior Services maintains a limited supply of medical equipment available for loan for residents of Hendricks County as part of the Danville Rotary Club Foundations, Inc’s Durable Medical Equipment Loan program.
Equipment is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
There is no charge for borrowing the equipment. Donations are graciously accepted to help offset the cost of maintaining the equipment.
We offer walkers, wheelchairs, rollators, and canes.
Call the Senior Center for more information at 317-745-4303.
North Salem Local & Social
Celebration of Life
Father Ed Shelton and son Brian Shelton will be honored with a Celebration of Life on Saturday, June 26, 6:30 p.m., at the North Salem Community Building. Come and share happy memories and fellowship with family and friends.
Ed was a retired employee of Allison’s and son Brian a lifelong farmer. Brian passed April 23,2020 and his Dad, Ed, passed September 4, 2020.
A brief service will be held, followed by food and beverage. Everyone welcome.
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66th Anniversary
Bob and Mary Ann Fleece celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary on July 18. She is still taking physical therapy at the Village of Avon, and if she has the perseverance to be married for 66 years, she should be back on her feet sooner rather than later.
We now have lightning bugs (fire flies) or whatever you call them. Brings back memories of younger days as kids, we always looked forward to catching lightning bugs in glass jars and seeing them light up. One memory is why I still have a scare on my right hand middle finger, from crashing into Dottie with our jar. Bad cut. Do you think kids today would look forward to this highlight!!
Also hunting mushrooms was a big deal. Got to visit some of our relatives in southern Indiana.
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Jim and Barb Oliver had a busy, blessed weekend.. Of course, Father’s Day brought Jim four nice phone calls/texts from his sons, Melvin, Stacy, Andy and Russell. Saturday, his daughter Tina (Ron) Bradley came from Bloomington for a visit, brought her Dad a tasty Oatmeal cake and surprises. After church, his stepdaughters Melanie, Dane, son Ethan, and Lori were waiting for him at home to share a couple of hours and a gift or two. The greatest was seeing his granddaughter, Theresa, who is home form the Air Force on leave. Because of COVID she hadn’t been able to come home. Then, to top off his day, his other daughter Theresa (Jim) Whitt came from Bedford for their time to see and visit her Dad. What’s nicer than touching base with our kids? - Nothing!
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So happy to have Belinda Stewart Witt stop by Sunday. She now lives in Center Point, Ind. Belinda is a 1972 graduate of North Salem High School and well remembered by former classmates here.
Las Wednesday, Coonsey strolling past. We now have 3 rabbits, Bandit and his offspring (squirrels), hummingbirds, and finches. Also flies - no cicadas (I hope).
Checked on corn planted by Karen at our farmers’ graves. Right not, Gene Kisner and Butch Trump are tallest. Next report, probably will change. Brian Shelton’s grows fast.
So glad to have Vanessa Dolder stop at Come Hang Out Store. She was looking for infant car seat. We didn’t have one, but I had one no longer needed in my car so we gave it to her. She also brought toys as her job entails her to commute children places. Was really happy to see her. Had been a number of years.
Theresa Macy and Ethan Macy came over to visit. Theresa is home on leave from Air Force Base in Florida. They are children of Melanie and Dan Macy.
Yard already need to be mowed. That’s ok - we really appreciate the rain.
Enjoying diner out Sunday evening were Alta Trump, Willy and Theresa Trump, and Tim and Nikkie Trump, Sydney and Paxton.
Mil and Molly Lichtenwalter attended a Celebration of Life for his Father, Steve, at C’ville Sunday.
Don’t forget the Celebration of Life for Ed and Brian Shelton, Saturday, June 26, 6:30 p.m., at the North Salem Community Building. Everyone welcome.
Can you believe our weather? One day very hot and humid and then next cool - a sweater needed. Doesn’t pay to put your winter clothes away!
Get well wishes to all - lots of coughs and sneezes!
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Neither rain, wind, hot, humid weather could keep people from attending the Strawberry Festival downtown North Salem, Saturday and Sunday. Thanks to all for making it a great time for all. Everybody ready for next year. Everyone had a good time.
Hope this fines everyone well and happy. Be thankful for all our blessings. Don’t forget to tell those you love, “I Love You.” We appreciate all the silent people who do so much for us. Thank you!
Jenny Pearcy hosted a Taco Bar Lunch for Father’s Day for Jim and Glen Pearcy. Those present were Jocelyn and Jill Pearcy, Ruth Miller, Lexie Pearcy. Others pitched in to go along with the Taco Bar. Good time was enjoyed by all.
Local Performers Featured In Original Play
The Melanie and Rosalie Albright Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, will present “Rabid,” an original comedy at the Storefront Theater 717 Broad Ripple Ave. on June 25 - 27, featuring young performers from Marion and Hendricks County.
“Rabid” is an original comedic play written by high school students from Central Indiana during a rehearsal process modeled after The 48-hour Film Project. Writers receive a random line and prop and have two weeks to write, direct, and perform a play incorporating both the line and prop.
Student performers Oliver Curtis (Brownsburg), Rose Cruzan (Brownsburg), Henry Whittle (Avon), Aicha Maidi (Brownsburg), Abi Goerges (Indianapolis), Grant Somkiet O’Meara (Brownsburg), and Andrew Couch (Indianapolis) will present this original comedic thriller.
Show tickets can be purchased by going to https://givebutter.com/Rabid
The show dates and times are Friday, June 25 (7:30 pm), Saturday, June 26 (3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.), and Sunday, June 27 ( p.m.).
“I”m so excited that our foundation is able to give young people an opportunity to explore writing and directing an original play,” said Aimee Albright, The Melanie and Rosalie Albright Foundation President and Supervising Director. “This is a unique opportunity for the talented young performers in our community to share their creativity with the world.”
Oliver Curtis, co-writer and performer, added, “I’m happy to have an original idea put out in public for people to see. I hope everyone likes it and comes and supports the Melanie and Rosalie Albright Foundation.”
The Melanie and Rosalie Albright Foundation was established to honor the memories of two sisters, Melanie and Rosalie, who found joy in life through participating in theatre while battling cystic fibrosis. We believe the performing arts community is a safe, welcoming place for youth to be supported and accepted for who they are. By providing scholarships and performance opportunities to youth ages six to twenty-one, we can help those wishing to participate in any aspect of the performing arts find acceptance and a place of belonging.
Improve Your Mood Support Group
Improve Your Mood Support Group meetings every Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Hendricks County Senior Center. Members have been gathering to learn about mindfulness and other coping techniques for symptoms of depression and anxiety.
The Improve Your Mood Support Group is offered at no cost to anyone 25 years of age or older wishing to participate. No reservations are required to attend.
The group is facilitated by Sharon Dora Samsell, Coordinator of Bereavement and Community Support Groups for Hendricks Regional Health.
“The group focuses on sharing situations and processing emotions, then devoting time to a specific mood enhancement activity or skill that they can put into practice when away from their group” states Sharon.
Transportation is available through Senior Services at 317-718-4474. If you would like to join us for lunch before the meeting, please call the Senior Center at least 24 hours in advance. Suggested donation is $3 for seniors 60 years old or older and their spouses.
Hendricks County Senior Services is funded in part by United Way of Central Indiana, CICOA Aging and In-Home Services and the generous donations of individuals, businesses and community organizations. Service is provided without regard to sex, race, color, religion, disability, or national origin.
Henry David Thoreau
Master Gardener Gives Tour
Indian pinks are shown by Master Gardener Colletta Kosiba at her home.
Photo by Jackie Rosales
Master Gardener Colletta Kosiba hosted a tour of her extensive gardens for the Hendricks County Master Gardeners, the Sages Garden Club and friends.
Most admired plants were Indian Pinks, a huge oakleaf hydrangea in full bloom, variety of hostas and her creative garden sculptures that graced the gardens. A very large catalpa tree was in full bloom. The prairie across the creek was beginning to show colorful blooms.
Kosiba’s love of native plants. shows in her garden designs. As a Master Gardener,Kosiba teaches gardening throughout Indiana.
Brownsburg Fire Territory Welcomes New Recruits
The recruits for Brownsburg Fire Territory went through five stations of bottle consumption drills last week.
Photos by Melissa Gibson
By Melissa Gibson
At the Brownsburg Fire Territory Training Center, four new recruits are dressed in full gear (an additional 60-80 pounds), including compressed air tanks and begin rotating between five stations.
Simple tasks, such as carrying a fire hose, lifting a ladder and crawling through an enclosed space looks easy, but after 30 minutes of rotating through the bottle consumption drill, the four men learn just how quickly they can use up a tank of air and just how quickly one can become exhausted.
“We do these to see how fast they use their air and their aerobic ability,” said Division Chief of Training Jerry Harder. “We’ve got several age groups, ranging from 27 to 42 and each person works a little differently. This gives the guys an idea of how quickly they use their air and allows them practice controlling their breathing. It prevents us from having to come out of a fire for rehab too early.”
Once air supply is low and the men are exhausted, Harder sends them to four corners of the room, turns out the lights and has them find an orange cone in the center. Again, it seems like an easy task, right?
However, once exhaustion has set in and air supply is low, it’s easy to become disoriented, particularly in the dark and the concentration required can prove to be difficult. Similar to a real fire, the firefighters learn to control stress, breathing and concentration in situations most can’t imagine.
“Most firemen do this kind of thing once a month or so,” said recruit Dakota Bain. “Getting in our gear and knowing how much time I have with my air… If I’m in shape and can make one last 30 minutes, I’m able to guestimate where I am on air supply in a fire.”
Bain has wanted to be a fireman since childhood and transferred from the Danville Fire Department after six years. He’s excited to join Brownsburg and wants to continue to grow.
One station consisted of carrying fire hose up and down a flight of stairs.
“I feel like I have a purpose in life. I’ve always wanted to give back and if I just help one person or if I just take advantage of the day with training etc. I feel like I’ve done well. I think Brownsburg will help me become the best firefighter I can be. I want to help people and Brownsburg is going to help me become that for them,” Bain said.
The men appreciate Brownsburg Fire Territory’s dedication to health, fitness and training.
Jeff Kish, another recruit from Gary, started at his local fire department as a volunteer, headed to college on a football scholarship.
“I met some guys and they took me under their wing. At the end of the summer, I sat my parents down and said I didn’t want to play football. I began testing for a spot all across the country and landed in Gary. It was time for a change and I realized that Brownsburg was a great place to finish my career. They take care of their guys with health, fitness and physicals and these guys are eager to learn and train and hone their skills. I think in a lot of places, this is unheard of,” Kish said.
Brownsburg’s firemen do focus on training and preparation to help the community in a variety of ways. Deputy Chief of Operations, Tony Smith said while years ago, the fire department solely worked fires for the area, today, they are responsible for hazardous materials, confined space calls, trench rescue, swift water rescue and more.
At another station, the firefighter crawled through an enclosed space.
As the recruits worked through the stations, exhaustion and lack of air supply began to set in.
“These guys do a minimum of two hours of training every day,” Smith said. “If you are on shift, you do two hours and that’s just fire fighters. We also maintain EMT training and search and rescue training among other trainings.”
A typical new recruit class is 26 weeks and those that are transferring with previous experience will train for eight weeks. Smith said the application process is competitive, as one spot typically receives hundreds of applications. A career firefighter must pass a written test, a physical agility test, the interview board, and psychological evaluation.
The training is difficult and the men are committed but the community also responds with support and appreciation.
Brownsburg is really good to us,” Smith said. “We have a great community and a great public education program. We have good relationships with the schools and are able to go in and talk to kids about fire safety and we’re continuing to grow.”
Watch for the four new recruits joining the Brownsburg Fire Territory to be on a future run or public education opportunity: Chris Laws, Tyler Lawrence, Jeff Kish and Dakota Bain.
For more information on the Fire Territory’s training and events, visit https://brownsburgfire.org/183/Fire-Territory or like their Facebook page.
Tourism Making a Comeback in 2021
Student groups have slowly begun scheduling trips this past spring.
Photo: Appian Tours
By Melissa Gibson
The tourism industry experienced a collapse in the wake of the pandemic in March of 2020. Some were on the front lines of that collapse, and while things are headed in the right direction, they’re still waiting for a full recovery.
Avon resident, Erin Curry launched her tourism business, Appian Tours ten years ago, primarily working with school corporations and leading student trips.
“We started out with one school in Lebanon and have grown to over 50 schools,” Curry said. “We plan trips to Washington D.C., Chicago, St. Louis and Boston among others. We grew completely organically and never spent a dime on marketing. Five years ago, my husband, Grant, came on full time and we joked about all of our eggs being in this one basket, so this had to work.”
They do adult trips as well, but with an estimated 95 percent of business revolving around student trips, the Curry’s can pinpoint the moment things went south.
“It was March 6, 2020. March through May is all of our business with a few weeks added in October. We had three D.C. trips scheduled that next week. We had 5,000 students scheduled for trips in the next few weeks and they were all cancelled,” Curry said. “Everyone had already paid in full and we had paid everything out for the expenses to hold those spots. When COVID happened, the trips were cancelled and parents (who were dealing with their own issues due to COVID) wanted their money back but most of the hotels, airlines, buses etc. thought it was too early; they weren’t refunding us.”
The Curry’s had to take out a home equity line on their home to pay back parents and wait for the refunds on their end – some of which, has never been refunded.
“The tourism industry was completely decimated,” Curry said. “We lost $1.5 million in revenue, a 100 percent loss in 2020 and have gone 17 months with no business. For a while, all I did was process refunds all day, every day.”
The Curry’s weren’t alone.
Though the government issued a bailout for airlines, bus companies received no federal funding.
“Motorcoaches are a bunch of small businesses that received nothing. I would say one third to one half of them, some of them have been around for 100 years, have closed their doors permanently. World Strides, the largest student tour company filed for bankruptcy and I know of several other small business tour companies that had to sell their homes,” Curry explained.
“We were able to keep our home and we were able to pay everyone back but it was one of those moments where I’d wake up in the middle of the night, thinking about all the blood, sweat and tears I have put into my business. I worked day and night around the clock and it all went away in a snap,” Curry said.
Slowly, the business is coming back. Appian Tours saw a few trips come back on the schedule in the spring of 2021 and a few more are scheduled for this fall, however, the group tourism industry is still sluggish and not all locations are open and ready for large groups.
“We’re getting there. Adults are able to get vaccinated and they are ready to travel and ready to go,” Curry said. “The problems we’re finding now is not all school corporations have allowed field trips and for those that are, some of the locations aren’t ready. Many restaurants aren’t allowing groups of 50 people in at one time, a lot of indoor places are still closed to large groups. If you’re in a group of six or less, you should be okay, but the large group tours are still working in that direction.”
Despite the hardships small businesses and families have suffered throughout the pandemic, the Curry’s have kept their eye on the purpose of student trips all along.
“One of our main missions is to pop the bubble,” Curry said. “We’re not just taking kids places; we’re educating them about different cultures in these locations as well. It doesn’t matter if you come from poverty or privilege, there are so many kids that have never left their neighborhoods.
“It can really be life changing for a lot of these kids. I’ve heard them say things like ‘this is the best day of my life’ and that’s a big deal to me because it’s broadening their horizons and showing them what is possible. I’ve seen kids come back and change their career plans because they didn’t know how much they enjoyed history, traveling, exploring new places and independence,” Curry added.
The Curry’s are committed to seeing through the stall in business and can’t wait for the time business is booming once again. However, they know it’s going to take time.
“We’re going to stay open,” Curry said. “Right now, it’s just about sustaining. We have to keep things going and we’ve worked hard to get where we were and we’re not willing to give it up. We’re on the upswing and we know business is coming back.”
Planning your own family get away? Curry believes now is a great time to travel because numbers are still down, but recommends you check each location on your destination for their restrictions, policies and requirements to visit.
For more information on Appian Tours, visit https://appiantours.com or visit their Facebook page.
Grant and Erin Curry plan a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for those ready to travel and experience the world.
Photo: Appian Tours
Meet Lori Keeton, Local Business Owner and Guinness World Record Holder
Keeton receives her certificate from Guiness World Records after her record-setting 8-hour wakeboarding ride.
By Cooper Lee
Lori Keeton of Brownsburg succeeds at running her family-owned business, but that didn’t stop her from breaking a Guinness world record in her free time.
Floors For You, the flooring company started by Lori Keeton’s father in Brownsburg, has been in business since 1990, selling to mostly Hendricks County customers. Her father started out as a flooring installer and later decided to open his own carpentry business.
Keeton says, “I grew up in the business and I love what I do.”
For 31 years, since its inception, Keeton has been a part of the flooring business that her parents started, and in that time, she has accomplished much, but nothing like her undertaking on June 8, 2021.
Keeton became interested in watersport, namely wakeboarding, nearly 16 years ago, starting lessons at Morse Lake, and she immediately took to it. “I was able to stand on my first try, and it just came natural to me.”
It only took Keeton about 30 days to learn the ins and outs of the sport, and in a short time she’d mastered her craft to the point of surfing all day. She got so good that, while on a houseboat trip with friends, was able to wakeboard surf the entire day, breaking a Guinness record without being aware of it. “People got tired, but I surfed for four hours.”
That fateful day on the lake with friends proved to be the driving force behind her decision to pursue a world record.
“After that I looked into the record and began my training. The biggest thing was finding a way to refuel the boat without stopping, so I worked with N3 Boatworks who helped me with logistics of the fuel bladder and pump.”
The fuel tank required for the record had to be larger than normal, and that’s where the collaboration came in handy, providing Keeton’s boat with a 50-gallon fuel tank. This would make stopping unnecessary, giving Keeton all that she needed for the record.
On June 8 of this year, at Raccoon Lake, near Rockville, Indiana, Keeton set out to break the former Guinness world record for most consecutive time wakeboarding, which stood at 2 hours and 18 minutes for women and 3 hours and 55 minutes for men. “I did better than I thought I would,” said Keeton, following an 8-hour, record shattering run.
Even after destroying the men’s and women’s times, Keeton felt like she could do more, “Eight hours is the cut off for the judge, after that they stop you unless there’s a second judge on-site.” Keeton was forced to stop, but her goal was achieved, and she refuses to be satisfied by her own record. She plans on beating her record-breaking time in the future, saying, “I plan on following up with another judge and attempting to break my first record.”
Keeton wants to treat it as an event and fundraise for the Wake for Warriors organization which works to teach veterans watersports. Keeton reflects on her former performance, and next time she’s looking to put on a show. “Eight hours is nowhere near my limit,” stated Keeton.
With one record in her rearview mirror, and another on the horizon, Keeton has a lot to achieve. Be sure to follow her social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram at nautique.girl to keep up with her future records.
For more information about Lori Keeton and her endeavors, go to her website at www.nautiquegirl.com. The same link can be used to donate to the Wake for Warriors organization.
: Lori Keeton is pictured in the process of setting her world wakeboarding record for most consecutive time. The attempt took place on Raccoon Lake, with a judge from Guiness World Records observes from on board the boat.
Brownsburg Offers Fall Sessions of Resident Academy
The Town of Brownsburg’s Resident Academy proved to be so popular this spring that a second session will launch this fall. Resident Academy is a six-session program that helps residents get a deeper understanding of the Town’s operations through lecture, discussion, and interactive activities.
“If you’re a resident who has questions about how decisions are made from department head level up to Town Manager and Town Council, you’ll find this to be a worthwhile program,” said Town Manager Jeffery A. Eder.
“The people that work for this town are the unsung heroes,” Resident Academy graduate David Warswick shared on a survey. “I don’t hesitate to tell residents that if they have the opportunity to attend, please do this.”
The Academy will take place on Tuesday nights from 6-8 PM from August through October. Participants will tour Town facilities, learn day-to-day responsibilities and operations, gain a greater understanding of the budget process, meet Town leadership, and get answers to questions about the operations of the Town of Brownsburg.
Interested residents can apply online at Brownsburg.org/resident-academy. Applications are accepted on a first come, first-served basis and preference will be given to those who have not previously participated. Class size is limited to 25 people. Registration is open until July 16; selected participants will be notified by July 23 of their acceptance into the program. Program sessions are:
Session 1 – Resident Academy Overview, Administrative Overview, Tuesday, August 17, 2021 6-8 p.m., Town Hall Council Room, 61 N. Green St.
Session 2 – Brownsburg Parks Overview, Tuesday, August 31, 2021 6-8 p.m., Bundy Lodge, Arbuckle Acres Park.
Session 3 – Fleet and Water Utilities Overview (Part 1) - Tuesday, September 14, 2021 6-8 pm., Fleet Maintenane Facility, 221 S. Mardale Drive, Wastewater Plant Bldg G, 225 S. Mardale Drive.
Session 4 – Street and Water Utilities Overview (Part 2) - Tuesday, September 28, 2021 6-8 pm. Bundy Lodge and Water Plant, Arbuckle Acres Park, 200 N. Green St.
Session 5 – Public Safety Overview, Tuesday, October 12, 2021 6-8 p.m. - Police Department Training Facility, 75 Whittington Dr.
Session 6 – Development Services, Economic Development Overview, Tuesday, October 26, 2021 6-8 p.m. - Town Hall Council Room, 61 N. Green St.
Visit Hendricks County Video Wins National Award
A Visit Hendricks County video in partnership with Williams Randall Marketing recently won a prestigious award.
Our answer to the pandemic, “How To Say It With Your Eyes,” won a Bronze in the annual Telly Awards competition, which is the premier national award honoring video and television across all screens.
The one-minute video which was produced last summer and released in the fall amid the COVID-19 pandemic provided a fun, light-hearted approach in encouraging everyone to wear their masks. It supported Visit Hendricks County’s strategic plan to fulfill an unmet community need in a time of crisis as the organization focused on being a resource for the Hendricks County community.
“Our organization followed a vision to be a place for good news and lighthearted messaging during the pandemic,” said Jaime Bohler Smith, executive director of Visit Hendricks County. “We are very proud that our storytelling was welcomed by the community, and to be honored with an award is very rewarding for our team.”
The video won a bronze in the Craft – Social Media category of The Telly Awards. Honoring TV and video worldwide since 1979, The Telly Awards received more than 12,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents. Winners represent work from some of the most respected advertising agencies, television stations, production companies and publishers from around the world. The Telly Awards recognize work created on behalf of a client, for a specific brand and/or company or self-directed as a creative endeavor.
To see the award-winning video, go to www.VisitHendricksCounty.com/Local/Masks/. For more information about Hendricks County, go to www.VisitHendricksCounty.com.
The Hendricks County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc., d/b/a Visit Hendricks County attracts visitors to the county by promoting and developing tourism, which stimulates economic growth and enhances quality of life. For more information, visit our website at VisitHendricks- County.com or call (317) 718-8750.
Volunteer for SHIP
A rewarding volunteer program at Hendricks County Senior Services is looking for volunteers for SHIP, the State Health Insurance Program.
This program is a free health insurance counseling service for people with Medicare. This is provided by the Indiana Sate Department of insurance and funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
“Our SHIP counselors provide free impartial information to assist consumers in making decisions regarding their Medicare choices and questions” states Deanne Sanders-Below, coordinator of In-Home Services at Hendricks County Senior Services. “Ship is not affiliated with any insurance company or agency and does not sell insurance. They are staffed by a crew of volunteer counselors who have completed intensive training to offer objective assistance in complete confidence,” states Below.
SHIP is driven by volunteers who are committed to helping people with Medicare determine the best healthcare choices for their individual situations and to be good consumers of Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Part D Drug Coverage, Long Term Care Financing and Low-Income Assistance Programs.
To become a SHIP counselor, you must complete a 30- hour training, either virtually or in-person; complete volunteer shadowing, additional training in the spring and fall and have a desire to help Medicare Beneficiaries in your community.
If you are interested in an important and rewarding volunteer opportunity, please contact Deanne Sanders-Below at 317-910-5367 or the State’s SHIP office at 1-800-452- 4800. You can also visit www.medicare.in.gov and click the “Become a SHIP Volunteer” link for more information.
LINK Public Transit Service
LINK Hendricks County provides public transit service to persons of any age (including wheelchair transport, portable oxygen, attendants, and service animals).
Services are available to anyone needing a ride within Hendricks County. Those under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. If your child falls under the Indiana Child Seat Law you must provide a state approved car seat.
LINK service is scheduled on a first come, first served basis, so riders are encouraged to call as soon as possible, up to three (3) months in advance.
Curb to curb transportation is available Monday through Friday, during the hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Service is not available on holidaysor when inclement weather prohibits safe boarding and/or travel.
This is a fee-based service, $6 round trip within a town; $8 round trip within the county. The service is scheduled by calling LINK at 317-718-4474 and requesting LINK transportation.
