32 minute read
Hendricks County
2021 Leadership Development Series Workshop
Invest in yourself by registering for one or both of these half-day workshops hosted by Leadership Hendricks County and held at the Hendricks County 4H Fairgrounds & Conference Center Complex in Danville.
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Community Conversations Thursday, Aug. 12, 8-11:30 a.m.
This workshop will focus on Hendricks County as a welcoming and inclusive community. A welcoming and inclusive community is about creating a community with a positive reputation, where diversity adds to the social and economic vibrancy of the community and the quality of life is enjoyed by all residents. As our community continues to grow and change, how can we ensure that Hendricks County remains a welcoming and inclusive community?
Facilitators: Eric Hessel, Hendricks County Community Foundation, and Susan Rozzi, Rozzi & Associates.
LHC and Chambers of Commerce members are $75 per person / single workshop. Non-members are $99 per person / single workshop. Register at leadershiphendrickscounty.org
Conflict & Negotiation Friday, Oct. 15, 8-11:30 a.m.
As the saying goes, change is inevitable, except from a vending machine. So how do we manage all that change? Developing Negotiation Skills: the training begins with an individualized assessment of conflict preferences. A variety of hands-on exercises help participants develop and practice negotiation strategies that complement their preferred conflict management style(s). Facilitator: Carolyn Goerner of Practical Paradigms. LHC and Chambers of Commerce members are $75 per person / single workshop. Non-members are $99 per person / single workshop. Register at leadershiphendrickscounty.org
New Plainfield Education Building To Open July 29
MADE@Plainfield is a 100,000 square foot facility for higher education in Hendricks County. Classes start this fall for the 2021-22 school year.
By Melissa Gibson
A few years ago, Plainfield School Corporation Superintendent Scott Olinger approached Plainfield Town Council President Robin Brandgard about an education gap he saw within the county.
“They began talking about furthering education but not in the traditional sense,” said Stephanie Singh, Director of Communication for the Town of Plainfield. “We have the warehouses in Plainfield looking for qualified people and people looking to gain qualifications for those jobs. We want to fill the gap of so many people leaving the county to go to work, but rather, that people will see the value of living, training, working and playing in Hendricks County.”
In partnership with Plainfield School Corporation, Town of Plainfield, Hendricks College Network, Vincennes University, Ivy Tech, Work One and Indiana Department of Homeland Security, the concept for a higher education facility, MADE, was born.
MADE, an acronym for Make your career, Achieve your dreams, Design your future with Education at Plainfield, is a nearly 100,000 square foot, two story building and offers classrooms, labs, office and meeting space for career and workforce development agencies.
In addition to offering general courses such as math, science, business and information technology, other courses geared toward technical training and trade education will focus on specific degrees and certificates to enhance both employer and employee needs.
“A lot of the warehouses in Plainfield are beginning to use technology in their production,” Singh said. “We need people who can work on the mechanics and engineering of these robots and technological tools. It’s not so much that we’re losing jobs to technology, but just changing the needs to a different type of job.”
“Vincennes University is pleased that the MADE@Plainfield facility is designed specifically to continue the full range of training in transportation, distribution, and logistics that area students and businesses have come to rely on from us,” said David Tucker, Vice President of Workforce Development/ Community Services for Vincennes University. “As warehouse and distribution becomes more and more automated, VU is positioning itself to provide additional automation and robotics training at MADE@Plainfield, both for high school students and adults.”
The close proximity to Interstate 70 and Plainfield High School will allow opportunities for high school students as well as easy access for traveling college students.
“Ivy Tech Community College is excited to be a partner in this collaborative opportunity and look forward to expanding our academic offerings and enhancing pathways for workforce attainment and growth in Hendricks County,” said Kathleen Lee, chancellor of Ivy Tech Central Indiana in a recent press release.
In addition, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security holds public safety training for firefighters, law enforcement and others. The Town hopes with the addition of MADE and first responder education, Plainfield can become a hub for those types of jobs as well.
With Ivy Tech and Vincennes already having a presence in the community, placing everyone under one roof made sense and though the building is in Plainfield, it’s important to the partners that the community understand that MADE is for everyone.
“We want it to be a regional draw and a county-wide asset,” Singh said. “We want everyone to feel included and see this as a benefit for the entire county.”
Enrollment is currently open and classes begin in August.
Yoy can join the MADE celebration ribbon cutting at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 29, at 1610 Reeves Road, just north of Plainfield High School. For more information, visit MADE@ Plainfield on Facebook or visit Ivy Tech Community College or Vincennes University for a list of courses.
HCRD Advisory Committee To Meet
The Hendricks County Recycling District’s Citizens Advisory Committee will meet on Monday, July 19, 2021, at 3:00 pm on the second floor of the Danville Town Hall located at 49 N. Wayne Street, Danville, Indiana. The public is invited to attend.
Call the District’s office at (317) 858-6070 for more information.
Pittsboro Local & Social
Gleaners Food Truck will be at Pittsboro Christian on Saturday, July 10 from 10:00 AM until Noon. ______
Thank you to everyone who supported the Pittsboro Christian Church Fish Fry and the Freedom Festival on July 3rd. Thank you to all who worked so hard to make the day a success.
Artists Paint the Town
A fun Plein Air Paint Out (painting outdoors) in historic Danville, hosted by the Gallery on the Square, Saturday, August 14 (check in at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds 7:30-10 a.m.)
Over $2500 in prize money!
Open to professional, non-professional, teens and youth.
Learn more and register for the early-bird discount at http://www.indianaartgallery.com or stop by the Gallery at 51 S Main Street (between Frank’s Place and the Royal Theater) M-F 10a-5p, Saturday 10a-2p
Gospel Music at Lizton UMC
The Lizton United Methodist Church will welcome Jim Hutson, gospel music solo artist and DJ for WYGS (Southern Gospel Music) in Columbus, Ind. for a fun-filled church service on Sunday, July 11, 2021, at 9 a.m.
The church is located at 120 Brumfield Church, Lizton.
Senior Services Hosts Vision Loss Support Group
Hendricks County Senior Services is pleased to announce they will be hosting their monthly support group designed specifically for persons with Vision Loss and their caregivers. The next support group is Wednesday, July 14th at 1:30 PM.
This month Bosma Enterprises will present on their programing, ‘navigating blindness’ with their In-Home Training program. Anyone is welcome to attend. No reservations are required to participate in the support groups and membership at the Senior Center is not required. All meetings are confidential, free of charge and open to all.
Dr. Keely Allen facilitates the group with her team from Danville Family Eye Care in Danville. After the meeting, Dr. Allen’s associates will be adjusting and cleaning glasses.
Dr. Keely Allen graduated with honors from Indiana University School of Optometry in 2006 and practices with a full scope of Optometry. She is trained in the diagnosis and management of nonsurgical, medical ocular conditions including diabetic eye exams, glaucoma and macular degeneration.
Transportation is available through Senior Services at 317-718-4474. If you would like to join us for lunch, please call the Senior Center at least 24 hours in advance. Suggested donation is $3.00 for seniors 60 years old or older and their spouses. To receive additional information on this support group, please contact Hendricks County Senior Services at 317-745-4303.
The Hendricks County Senior Center is located at 1201 Sycamore Lane in Danville. Senior Services is funded in part by United Way of Central Indiana, CICOA Aging and In-Home Solutions and the generous donations of individuals and community organizations. Service is provided without regard to sex, race, color, religion, disability, or national origin.
Monitoring Services For Senior Citizens
If you or someone you know needs additional resourcesand support to stay independent, Hendricks County Senior Services has a program that may be of help: Guardian Medical Monitoring. For more information about Guardian Home Alert Program or any other programs, contact Hendricks County Senior Services at 317-745-4303 or email us at inhome@hcseniors.org. We are happy to answer questions directly on this program at HCSS and have product samples in the office.
DAR Hosts Open House To Distribute Gift Set
Wa-Pe-Ke-Way Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution will be hosting an Open House to distribute the Vietnam War veterans gift set on Wednesday, July 14th, at the Brownsburg American Legion Post #331, 636 East Main, Brownsburg from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The free gift includes the Indiana edition of a beautiful, archival-quality hardbound book, A Time to Honor: Stories of Service, Duty, and Sacrifice, filled with stories representing all states, all branches of service, paired with an expanded digital book and e-book with hundreds of additional pages of Indiana stories of Vietnam Vets and DVD documentary, The Journey Home.
This is being made available through a collaboration with the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) & Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans (WHVV) which established the Indiana Vietnam Veterans Gift as an outreach program to honor and give thanks to Indiana Veterans who served during the Vietnam War years of 1955-1975.
Rhonda Beck, who serves as both chapter chair and Indiana State Chair for DAR Service to Veterans, said Indiana DAR is happy to partner with IDVA and WHVV to assist in distribution of the gift sets to the Vietnam War Era veterans. Whether veterans have pre-registered or not, they are invited to stop by the Open House to receive their gift set. Any prior registration will be verified or the chapter can register them at that time.” Several Wa-Pe-Ke-Way Chapter members will be on hand to assist.
Beck further noted the chapter will be contacting area senior assisted living and nursing facilities to work with the administrators and/or families to ensure their Vietnam War veteran residents receive the gift sets.
Several presumptive illnesses attributed to the Vietnam War are now recognized and approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Agencies who offer assistance and outreach programs to veterans will be on hand should the veteran like to visit with them with questions about the presumptive illnesses of any other questions they may have relating to services and benefits available to veterans.
The Gift of Gratitude will be an ongoing effort by IDVA and WHVV to distribute to the estimated 130,000 Vietnam Era Veterans living in Indiana. The Indiana Vietnam Vets FREE Gift will show gratitude & respect to Indiana veterans. It will also provide social awareness and historical value to multiple generations about the real accounts of the Vietnam War. All over the state of Indiana, the Vietnam Vets Gift and message will reinforce the idea that it is never too late to say “Thank You” and “Welcome Home.”
To learn more about the work of today’s DAR, visit www.DAR.org or visit Wa-Pe-Ke-Way Chapter website at http://wapekeway.wixsite.com/wapekeway
Graduates From Northern Ill. U.
Kimberly Rogers, of Brownsburg, recently graduated from Northern Illinois University. Kimberly received a Masters of Arts, Communication Disorders - Speech-Language Pathology.
Earns Degree From Emerson
Madison Mehringer, of Avon, graduated with the Class of 2021 at Emerson College in Boston, Mass. Madison graduated in December 2020 and received a BA in Writing, Lit and Publishing.
Bradley U. Graduate
Matthew Gaby, of Avon, graduated from Bradley University in Peoria, Ill. He earned a BS in Computer Science Computer Game Technology.
On Dean’s List at Quinnipiac
Amy Loberger, of Brownsburg, was named to the dean’s list for the Spring 2021 semester at Quinnipiac University in Hamden Connecticut. To qualify for the dean’s list, students must earn a grade point average of at least 3.5 with no grade lower than C.
Earns Degree at Bradley U.
Jared Riddle, of Danville, was among the 1,000- plus student to graduate from Bradley University in Peoria, Ill. in May.
He received a BSIE in Industrial Engineering.
You CAN Do More at the County Fair
Hendrick County Extension Homemakers continue to add new events for our Fair this year.
Throughout the week of the Fair they will host ON THE SPOT sessions that include Story Time for Kids; Art & Craft sessions; Home Canning; and Aprons. Advance sign up is not required.
I CAN – U CAN 2 continues to grow as 4-H Fair & Conference Center Staff and Homemakers begin the CAN Food Drive July 1 through July 17. Donate 5 CANs = 1 FREE Fair ticket.
To continue assisting Food Banks throughout Hendricks County Master Gardeners will head up a Hit the CAN effort on July 21. NSSB will sponsor this worthy effort.
CANs will be seen throughout the Fair since Homemakers, Master Gardeners and local garden clubs have donated CAN- NA Lily bulbs for planting in containers on the grounds.
I CAN – U CAN 2 contest with prizes totalingover $500 is open for Exhibit Applications. Visit 4hcomplex.org. Click on “2021 4-H Fair” then ‘I CAN – U CAN 2.”
John Ruskin
North Salem Local & Social
Did you know the new North Salem Water Tower Tank can be seen from Danville - 500 N on SR 236 to North Salem. A great welcoming sign.
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Circle of Concern
Cindy Clark, we all love her and others - Dottie Basham; Gerald Whiles; Lloyd Hopkins; Rita Lieske; Becky Graham, hand surgery; Tommy Robinson, Marcia Sowders; the Shelton Family; Barbara Porter; Dianne Neff; Nora Small and family; Mary Ann Fleece; Sonnie Johnston and family; Alta Trump and family; Norma Bishop family; Mary Lou Morris; Wayne Robinson and family; Jim and Barbara Oliver; Steve and Carolyn Clark, who now live in Danville; Pam Cox; Vicky Russell; Dan from Lebanon who likes to visit the Come Hang Out Store (thanks to Jim Bryant for bringing him down).
Get will wishes to Jennifer Hankins, following surgery.
Concern for Mike Dearman and other members of his family.
So many with medical issues. Our get well wishes to all.
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Candy Page of Texas is here for a visit with her sister, Donna Alexander, and other family and friends. Candy is a former North Salem resident and widow of Don Page and daughterin-law of late Oscar and Marcella Page, longtime residents of North Salem and involved in church and other activities. Good to see Candy.
Happy to see Jane Bernhardt and Joyce Larmer, sisters, riding their beautiful bikes around. They also do lots of walking and putt out garden, mowing large lawn, canning their produce and putting extra produce in the yard for free. Glad they can be together.
A report from Karen Hardman. A trip through the cemetery reveals that Ed and Brian Shelton’s corn is tallest right now. She’ll have to plant more on Butch’s grave as they dug it up in leveling his grave filling. You can still catch up, Butch. All the other farmers about even.
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Betty Francis Jaynes of Brownsburg passed June 21. She was the daughter of the late Rolla and Rosa Francis. She was preceded by her husband, the late Harold K. Jaynes, and sister, Marjorie Cloncs. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and sisters, Marilyn Plasters and Barbara Pierucki. Celebration of Life was held June 26.
Betty will be remembered by some of the older North Salem residents when she lived here. Our sympathy to all.
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Have notice fewer birds, but no dead ones. Thought it due to so much rain and humidity. Hope we don’t lose them. Enjoy the birds, Bandit the squirrel and his offspring, our bunnies (3 of them - haven’t really named them yet), our country lady’s rooster and hens that escape over our way - so pretty. No snakes (I hope). Love them all.
Churches all open for us to come back. North Salem United Methodist, North Salem Christian, Regular Baptist Church (so pretty and quaint), Covenant Grace, Emmanuel Baptist.
Wasn’t going to mention food - makes everyone want to move to North Salem with all our cooks - Gene McCullough, Barb Oliver, Linda and Riley Chaney, Phyllis Pearcy, Karen & Rick Hardman, Doris Stewart, Lola Stephens, Theresa Basham, and others. Now you know how I gain weight!
Looking for new restaurant to open soon.
The Dollar General Store is really appreciated in town.
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Visited Becky Graham Thursday. She is doing pretty good. Had to have two fingers and part of hand base removed. Having lots of food and visits from family, church family and friends.
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Glad to have Nancy Snyder drop by Sunday after church. She was going to visit her brother Steven Snyder and family. First time together for all since virus epidemic.
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Monday a.m. - Usual chores done this morning. Have checked on Delores Shelton, Alta, Betty and Lloyd Hopkins - more later - had to some and eat some delicious dried beef gravy over toast (thanks, Karen). I don’t fix food as before, just east to go by table and pick up marshmallow treat or peanut butter and crackers to go with coffee.
Real quiet so far this a.m. Guess everyone stayed up late celebrating our 4th of July Independence. Do you know independence from what? - 245 years since the United States parted with Great Britain, July 4, 1776. The unanimous Declaration of the 13 United States of America to be Independent. Nice to be able to read the Declaration of Independence. Really not read since in school. Good to read again. All people created equal.
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Sunday dinner guests of Alta Trump were Willy and Theresa Trump, Mike and Molly Liethenwatler, Tim and Nikki Trump, Sydney and Paxton, and Nick and Kinsey Trump and baby daughter Lylan.
Get will wishes to Jennifer Hankins, following surgery.
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So humid today. Hard to get anything done outside. Neighbor Kyle Miller and friend trimmed a large plant in his yard.
Jim Basham brought Bella down to visit. Gave her a treat and sent Luna (the little kitty) some. Also sent Dottie and Jim a small piece of you-know-who’s pineapple upside down cake (Gene McCullough). Betty gets small piece, too.
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Always glad to hear from others as I try to think of other people. Brandy Childers from Florida, who is enjoying having her friend Angie Stewart visit her for a short time.
Missy Raymond calls to update about every day, Ashley Raymond calls every week. Marjorie Lee Miller, former schoolmate and friend calls.
Let’s remember those that are alone. A call will help.
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Senior Services Offers Alaska Cruise in 2022
Hendricks County Senior Services is offering the opportunity to take the trip of a lifetime. In May of 2022, they will be traveling to Alaska for a 3-day land tour and 7-night cruise. The land tour will include an overnight in Fairbanks and two nights at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge. The cruise will be seven nights aboard the Grand Princess.
The land tour includes a trip on a sternwheel riverboat, a tour of Denali National Park and a scenic rail journey from Denali to Anchorage. The cruise will visit Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Vancouver. It will also cruise through Hubbard Glacier and Glacier bay National Park.
The Senior Center is working with local travel specialists, Mike and Jenifer Laver, of Cruise Planners, to assure that all questions can be answered by local representatives.
You do not need to be a member of the Senior Center to take this trip. Space is limited. If you would like more details about this trip, stop by the Senior Center at 1201 Sycamore Lane in Danville or call Becky at 317-745-4303.
Kids From North Salem - Way Back When!
Tinie Kisner is sharing some photos from “way back when.” Do you recognize any of the faces or are you one of them? Call The Republican office if you do - no prizes, but if we get all the faces identified, we’ll print the picture again with names included.
Workshop On Rotational Grazing
Hendricks County Soil & Water Conservation District invites livestock producers to a rotational grazing workshop Tuesday, July 13, 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.
Yard Waste Recycling Centers Open
Hendricks County Recycling District operates two Yard Waste Recycling Centers that accept woody waste, grass clippings, leaves, and other organic matter from Hendricks County households. Material collected at the centerswill be recycled into mulch.
Brownsburg Yard Waste Recycling Center is at 90 Mardale Dr. Hours are Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 317-858- 8231.
Plainfield Yard Waste Recycling Center is at 7020 S. CR 875 E. Hours: Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 317-838-9332.
To learn more about the Yard Waste Recycling Cneter and check out the online recycling guide, visit RecycleHendricksCounty.org.
Town of Amo Pays Tribute
The Town of Amo extends its sympathy and love to the family of Sylinda Rissot. Sylinda and Bob facilitated the Amo Jam for over 18 years! In Memory of Sylinda a wreath and copy of her obituary were placed on the Community Building doors, and the building was closed on Tuesdays in June. Sylinda is dearly missed!
Amo Jam resumed on Tuesday, July 6, 2021.
Our Advertisers: A Part of Our Community
A local newspaper is a reflection of its community and is composed of many parts, among them local businesses that advertise in it. These businesses pay the taxes, keep up the schools, build the roads and offer services that contribute to making our community worthwhile. Let our advertisers know your appreciate their support of The Republican.
Hendricks Power The Republican newspaper gives a big shout out to the only member-owned electric utility service in Hendricks County.
Back in the day when it was known as Hendricks County REMC, not only did they advertise in our newspaper, they chose The Republican for all of their printing needs. To a great, longtime community partner, The Republican newspaper wants to say “Thank You, and continued success.”
Family Hits the Vandalia Trail, Discovers Fun
Exploring Hendricks County
By Jackie Horn
Our daughter’s family, the Calls, came from Virginia to visit this past week. They’ll be here just over a month. John and I are so excited to introduce them to our new community. We’ve been bragging about all the parks and the trail system. She, her husband, and their three kids are avid bicyclers. (The youngest at three years old has it easy as he rides in a cart behind Mom on excursions.)
Our first adventure was this past Sunday. The weatherman was calling for rain later in the day so we thought we’d beat it by going biking in the morning. Loading bikes, carrier, and kids, we headed to Amo to try the Vandalia Trail.
It took two vehicles to haul everyone and their gear so the large parking area at the Amo terminus on Railroad Street was appreciated. We unloaded, mounted up, and headed west toward Coatesville.
The trail is paved, flat, and very smooth. Our sevenyear-old granddaughter who has only just started riding a two-wheeler felt confident. The trail travels through the two towns, farm fields and crosses Crittenden Creek at about the midpoint.
Mature trees shade almost the entire route. It was hot and sunny but the leafy tunnel made it a pleasant ride. The few road crossings were well marked and the busiest at Indiana 75 has a flashing caution light riders and hikers can activate. (While not required to stop, the traffic did and allowed us to cross.) Our band wasn’t the only one on the trail. While not crowded, we did meet a few other cyclists and joggers.
Arriving at the Coatesville station, we decided to go a bit further. We continued to the county line where the paved path ends and the trail becomes packed crushed limestone. After taking a few pictures to record our trek, we returned to our cars.
The Vandalia Trail marker at the Amo trailhead features a map, with distances (1.3 miles to Crittenden Creek; 3 miles to the Coatesville trailhead; 7.5 miles to Fillmore; and 11.6 miles to Greencaste), a list of trail rules, and trail etiquette. An unpaved equestrian tral runs parallel to the paved pedestrian portion of the Vandalial tail.
The Trailhead at the Amo end of the Vandalia Trail offers restrooms, bicycle parking, and infomration.
Back at Amo, the clean, modern restrooms were a blessing (potty training!) as was the WORKING drinking fountain. (With COVID restrictions, so many places have turned off their water fountains and since the temperature was in the 90’s, we were very thankful to be able to refill our bottles.) The entire trip was eight miles.
John and I loved this trail! We plan to ride it often because it was a lovely, easy ride. We’ve also heard the best pizza in the county can be had in Amo. We’re thinking of a Tuesday ride, pizza, and Amo Jam at the Community Building. Sounds like a great way to spend an evening.
Jackie Horn and her husband, John, transplanted from Warsaw to Plainfield to be near family. They have two children and nine grandchildren. An Advanced Indiana Master Naturalist, Jackie is a retired substitute teacher who continues to teach (and learn) about all things outdoors. John is a retired CNC programmer and the photographer on the team. The Horns enjoy traveling, walking, hiking, kayaking, and bicycling.
Simply Slabs Creates Furniture, Works of Art
Dan Althoff of Simply Slabs built his own sawmill and began creating custom furniture for sale.
By Melissa Gibson
While most of us have sat at the same dining room table for ten years, Dan Althoff’s dining room table changes all the time. Sometimes, this is because he’s fallen in love with another custom made table he created himself, but more times than not, it’s sold out from under him and he replaces it with another.
Althoff began making wood furniture pieces many years ago, but at the time, the items were just going inside his own home.
“I built all kinds of stuff, like beds for my kids. Nothing to sell, but I thought it was great fun. Paying for all the wood got expensive,” Althoff said.
Not a man to give up easily, two years ago, Althoff built his first sawmill, and able to produce his own lumber, began building items others were interested in buying. His fiancée, Autumn, began helping with Facebook posts and other advertising and things took off quickly.
“I’m coming up on retirement in about 16 months and I need something to do. I don’t sit still very well so we started the business. We went to the Penrod Art Fair a couple of years ago and that went great and since then things have just been on a steady roll,” Althoff said.
If you’re looking for a box store furniture product, you won’t find it at Simply Slabs.
Althoff painstakingly cuts his own lumber through a saw mill he researched and built himself, cuts the wood into slabs, puts them into a kiln (he also built) for four to five weeks to dry before he can ever start the process.
“If you want it fast, I can do it fast, but I’d have to cut corners,” Althoff said. “I’m super picky about it. If it’s not right, it can’t leave.”
He has every hard wood found in Indiana, including walnut, hickory, ash, white and red oak and continues the process of cutting, drying and storing to ensure he has stock for the next project on the list.
In addition to the stocking process, he’s also built two additions on to his Pittsboro workshop to make more space for stock and building.
Finding the right wood is often time consuming and a treasure hunt of sorts and each piece is unique and carefully crafted.
“Anytime you have figured wood, where two branches come together, when you put the finish on it, it just explodes, it’s really impressive,” Althoff said. “I drive all over town to pick up logs. You’re always trying to find the one tree that will give you the most figured wood. I actually once had one in the shape of a cross.”
As requests come pouring in and he allows his creativity to roam, Althoff has made pieces combining concrete and wood and found an artist to add some “amazing” designs to the work. He’s also ventured into doing large cabinets and other pieces, but he leaves the smaller woodwork to others.
“I don’t do a lot of small projects. If it’s not heavy and hard to maneuver, I probably don’t do it. I’ve done it before, but this is really what I enjoy the most,” Althoff said.
Most popular at the moment is walnut dining tables, bar tops and counter tops, but that’s liable to change at any time. For a while, Althoff said he had several cedar orders, and went to Tennessee to pick up cedar logs. He wants to have slabs that no one else has in the nearby area.
Many items take 30 days to build and range from $1200 to $2500 depending on the wood and labor intensity. It may take four to eight weeks to receive the ordered item, but a small price to pay for a piece like none other.
He enjoys mixing and matching the pieces and arranging them in a way that put together, it’s a work of art and
Althoff stores every hardwood available in the state for a variety of projects.
While requested items include dining room tables, bar tops and counter tops, Althoff is also branching out to custom cabinets and more.
While requested items include dining room tables, bar tops and counter tops, Althoff is also branching out to custom cabinets and more.
at times, regrets selling the table or bar that is particularly unique.
“I’ve had some tables I’ve sold that I wished I wouldn’t have; one walnut with lots and lots of figured wood. They’re all kind of special, really. Just the wood itself, when you put the finish on it and step back. That’s just crazy that nature made that. All I do is cut, sand and put it together, but it’s crazy to see what mother nature does,” Althoff said.
For more information or to contact Althoff, visit the Simply Slabs Facebook page.
As the business has progressed, Althoff has began mixing wood and concrete with different artwork, creating a unique piece
Brownsburg Native Serves on Submarine
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Amanda Rae Moreno
By Stephanie Fox, Navy Office of Community Outreach
A Brownsburg native is serving in the U.S. Navy assigned to Submarine Squadron Four, supporting the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines.
Petty Officer 1st Class Brandon Kissel, a 2007 Covenant Christian High School graduate, joined the Navy nine years ago. Today, Kissel serves as a machinist’s mate.
“I was three and a half years into college when I decided to join the Navy,” said Kissel. “My parents always wanted me to be a teacher, and I was on the track to do that, but I realized my heart wasn’t in it. I wanted to find a new path that could help me mature, flourish and figure out what I actually wanted to do with my life. I thought, ‘What better place than the Navy?’ The rest is history.”
According to Kissel, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Brownsburg.
“I grew up in a very religious household in a very religious community,” said Kissel. “That placed a high focus on me caring for others and helping whenever help was needed. I’ve held onto those core values throughout my Navy career.”
Fast, maneuverable and technically advanced, submarines are some of the most versatile ships in the Navy, capable of silently conducting a variety of missions around the world. There are three basic types of submarines: fast attack submarines (SSN), ballistic missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).
Serving in the Navy means Kissel is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“National security is vitally important for what we say, ‘helps people sleep good at night,’” said Kissel. “As a submarine force, specifically, we discuss strategic deterrence. You think of all the submarines out at sea that most people don’t know about. They’re there in case of an outbreak of war. They’re a strategic deterrence to other nations who know we have a certain number of submarines on call and ready to go if needed. The focus of owning water space and preventing people from coming in and invading our shores is one of the biggest roles the Navy plays in national security.”
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Kissel, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance.
“Serving in the Navy is an honor,” added Kissel. “You learn quickly how important your fellow sailors are because as soon as you join you realize that your personal goals come second to the needs of your crew. You instantly become a team and then family.”
Brownsburg Student Featured in The of Sound of Music at Beef and Boards
The Von Trapp Family Singers perform “Do-Re-Mi” in the Kaltzberg Music Festival.
Photos courtesy of Beef and Boards
By Melissa Gibson
Beef and Boards is back with their summer family show, the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic, The Sound of Music. The story of Maria, a nun who brings life back into a broken Austrian family during World War II has been a favorite over the years. In fact, Beef and Boards has presented The Sound of Music more than any other show in its 48- year history.
The current production is on through August 15 and according to Doug Stark, owner of Beef and Boards, the story seems to resonate with all ages.
“It’s been the most requested show because it is multi-generational,” Stark said. “It’s good for grandparents, it’s good for their kids and it’s good for the grandkids.”
Eleven-year-old Isabella Gosnell, a middle school student at Brownsburg, will play Brigitta, one of the seven Von Trapp children for the 64-performance run.
She began taking the stage when a friend invited her to audition for The Biz Academy’s The Little Mermaid show.
“I was seven or so, and I was in the ensemble. It was really fun for me and now I’ve done 18 shows with the Biz and one with Butler University,” Gosnell said.
“This will be my first with Beef and Boards.”
Isabella Gosnell will play Brigitta Von Trapp in Beef and Boards’, The Sound of Music this summer.
Like most performers, she’s learned to deal with disappointments and working through hiccups on stage, (she calls those “the laughing moments”) but most of all, she’s has found a place to thrive where others might have given up.
“I have congenital heart disease and it affected what kind of activity I could do. I couldn’t do basketball or soccer like other kids,” she said. “For the longest time, I thought it was a burden. I have this and I’m different and no one should know.”
Though Gosnell has had three open heart surgeries, she would dance into the cardiologist’s office and mom, Debra, said it was the doctor who suggested dancing would strengthen cardiac function. It was an activity that would improve her health, and something she obviously enjoyed. She’s been in dance class from age three and has taken voice lessons from the late Disney alum’s Jeff Salmon.
She also found her niche, among those enjoying the same experiences she does. In the theater community, she’s made many new friends, and crossed paths with old friends as well. Veteran Beef and Boards actor, Doug King is Gosnell’s tap dance instructor and for the first time, she gets to share the stage with him.
“It wasn’t until the fourth grade that I really started to let my scars show and I stopped hiding it,” Gosnell said. “It was hard to realize that I’m not lesser or weak. There’s probably so many children out there that have the same thing or anything else that think ‘I’m different and I’m weaker’ but it doesn’t make you weak, if anything, it makes you stronger.
“I want to do musical theater for the rest of my life,” she added. “I don’t see myself being anything else besides an actress. It’s become a part of my life and I just don’t think about anything else.”
Seats are limited and on sale now. Visit https:// www.beefandboards.com for more information.
Tox-Away Days For 2021
Hendricks Recycling District will host five Tox- Away Days in 2021. All Household Hazardous Waste (chemicals, auto fluids, fluorescent bulbs, rechargeable batteries, pesticides, herbicides, etc.) is accepted from households free of charge. Fees are charged for the recycling of televisions, appliances and tires (over a certain number).
Only residents of Hendricks County are allowed to utilize the District’s Tox- Away Day events. Tox- Away Days are open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The remaining 2021 Tox-Away dates and locations are:
• Saturday, July 17, Hickory Elementary School, 907 Avon Ave., Avon.
• Saturday, August 28, Hendricks County Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main, Danville.
• Saturday, October 9, Plainfield Middle School, 985 Longfellow Ln., Plainfield.
When you arrive at a Tox-Away event, stay in your vehicle. Volunteers will unload everything for you.
Please remember, latex paint should not be brought to Tox-Away Day for disposal. It is safe to dispose of with normal household trash once it’s been solidified.
More information about the Tox-Away Day program, as well as an online recycling guide, is available by calling the District’s office at 317-858-6070 or by visiting recyclehendrickscounty.org.
