41 minute read
Hendricks County
Museum Road Rally Travels Chocolate Trail
Becky Cervenka registers their Rubicon in the 2021 Hendricks County Museum Road Rally.
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Some fifty-plus Hendricks County travelers in 26 cars gathered in the parking lot south of the Hendricks County Museum early Saturday morning, eager for the intriguing route designed by the Museum’s volunteer “Road Rally Master” Tim Macsay.
Tim and his family, also museum volunteers, checked in the drivers as they perused the turn-by-turn directions navigating throughout the northwestern part of our county and leading through a section of Boone County.
Of the group, about half were returning from previous rallies, while the rest were newcomers to the event. The sunny, mild weather was just right for this adventure, appropriately named “The Great Chocolate Caper Car Rally.”
Macsay and his team presented instructions, including safety pointers, and in addition to the list of directions for the 67-mile tour, a list of interesting points to look for increased the anticipation of the trip. Questions like “What substation is on this corner? How many hangars are there at this airport,” etc. provided a means of learning more about Hendricks and Boone counties.
A list of 40 facts about chocolate gave participants an even tastier learning experience.
Driver/navigator teams looked forward to working together to complete this tour. However, one quipped, “Taking direction from my spouse? Do you provide marriage counseling at the end or the drive?” bringing a knowing chuckle from throughout the crowd.
Drivers and their navigators left driving south and west, one by one, with a short time lapsing between cars.
This car was built by owner Simon Jahner’s relative in the 1960s.
Rally Master Tim Macsay gives safety instructions to the drivers and navigators before the start.
What was the chocolate theme about? Hershey’s Kisses were given out at the start. At the first assigned rest stop, directions suggested that the team buy a chocolate candy bar, leading to learning the favorite candy bar of this group at the end. So many varieties resulted in just, “We all love chocolate.”
The route eventually made a stop at Donaldson’s Chocolate Shop on SR 39 just before Lebanon, where many took the opportunity to buy excellent chocolate.
The trip ended back at the same parking lot south of the museum where Tim answered the questions presented earlier and then presided over a few games. Grand prize was a wooden gear shift trophy from Forget-Me-Knots awarded to Janet Hladek for throwing a giant fan belt accurately.
Other prizes included a large, medium, and small chocolate car and even more Hershey’s Kisses. Afterward, participants were invited to tour the Hendricks County Museum and then many gathered at the Mayberry Café to exchange stories.
Watch The Republican in August 2022 for the date of the 2022 Hendricks County Museum Road Rally in early October.
Hendricks County Museum is at 170 S. Washington Street in Danville. The building served as the residence of the Hendricks County Sheriffs and their families from 1866 to 1974, while the county jail was in the basement. The museum is open Fridays and Saturdays 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Rally participants shared stories over lunch at the Mayberry Café in Danville.
Pittsboro OES Hosts Breakfast
Pittsbor Chapter #416 Order of the Eastern Star will host a breakfast on Saturday, October 23, from 7 to 10:30 a.m..
The event will take place at the Pittsboro Masonic Lodge, 327 East Wall Street, Pittosboro, and is open to the public. Enjoy a variety of breakfast selections for only $8. Sponsored by the Ways-N- Means Committee.
Plainfield Merchant Chatter
The Real Food Shoppe
Whether you’re looking for eco-friendly household items, organic and allergy friendly foods to make your health and wellness journey a bit easier, or additional immune support heading into the fall and winter months we have you covered! Located at 211 West Main Street in the heart of downtown Plainfield. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on new products arriving daily!
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Earth Wear Rock Shop “LOVE ROCKS? Did you know there was a awesome ROCK SHOP right here in Hendricks Country? There is! EARTH WEAR ROCK SHOP is located at 309 West Main St. Plainfield. Locally owned and operated since 2018. Offering a ever changing HUGE inventory of Gems, Minerals, Fossils & Handcrafted Jewelry, all at super reasonable prices! Come check out the incredible selection Tuesday-Thursday & Saturdays 11-4. Join us on Facebook at Earth Wear Plainfield. Mention this add with your next purchase and receive a FREE GIFT!
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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.
Senior Center Food Pantry
Hendricks County Senior Services offers a food pantry for Hendricks County seniors, including perishable, nonperishable, and hygiene products.
The food pantry is open by appointment. Please call 317-745-4303 to make an appointment to come to the food pantry.
Hendricks County Senior Services reserves the right to limit the number of visits. Individuals must be 60 years old or older and a resident of Hendricks County, to use the food pantry. Donations are always needed, accepted and appreciated.
Improve Your Mood Support Group
Improve Your Mood Support Group meetings every Tuesday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Hendricks County Senior Center. Members 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.
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.
HCCF Unity Grant Supports Voter Education
Hendricks County Community Fund’s Community Unity Grants Program is designed for projects and programs that increase civic engagement and build county branding and pride.
Less than half of the number of 18- and 19-yearolds registered to vote in Indiana in 2020 as compared to 2016. That decline is the worst in the nation. Voter registration among those newly-eligible Hoosier voters was 54 percent less in 2020 than the last presidential election cycle.
To support voter education and participation, a critical part of civic engagement, HCCF awarded a grant to a Leadership Hendricks County Capstone Group for voter education posters to display in each school district’s high school to encourage the students to register to vote.
For more information about Hendricks County Community Foundation, visit hendrickscountycf.org
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.
Mark Twain
East Coast Report by Jerry Vornholt
[The Republican’s publisher shares observations and reflects on his recent trip to his home state of Delaware.]
The Boardwalk, A Lesson in 3 Acts: Part II, Shoutout to the Rehoboth Beach Patrol
In the summer of 2018, I was one of 568 souls saved from drowning by the Rehoboth Beach Patrol lifeguards.
Caught in a rip current, I did everything you’re not supposed to do. I tried to swim back to shore, and I panicked. Within minutes it hit me; this may be the day I die. My legs felt like rubber bands, my eyes were burning from the salt water, I was too exhausted to yell, and even if they see my flailing arms there’s no way to stay up long enough for the lifeguard to reach me. Yet, somehow, he saw me, and he did get to me, and I got to live another day.
Over the course of one hundred years the Rehoboth Beach Patrol has saved tens of thousands of lives. And in those 100 years, only one life has been lost.
This was my first time back to Rehoboth Beach since 2018. I needed to stop in to the RBP headquarters to let them know how grateful I was. Knocking on the worn screen door of their boardwalk shack, Chief Rich came to greet me. “This is my first time back to Rehoboth since one of your lifeguards saved my life,” I blurted out, “and it’s my intention to say thanks and donate to the RBP every time I come back,” and handed him a $100 bill.
Chief Rich stared at me for a few seconds then turned away, went into another room, and came out a minute later with a piece of paper and a shirt.
“Here’s what we are going to do,” he said. “We are going to put this into the Dave Reynolds Scholarship Fund. Dave was a lifeguard that lost his life and left behind a wife and two young children.” “Perfect,” I replied. “We don’t usually get people thanking us,” he said. I was shocked at that statement.
So, here’s a grateful shoutout to the Rehoboth Beach Patrol. If not for that lifeguard doing the job he was trained to do on that summer day in 2018…
(Part III next week)
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, 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.”
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.
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.
Senior Services Provides Information & Referral
Hendricks County Senior Services can help seniors and caregivers navigate the resources in our community. Learn about Social Security, all Medicare and medication assistance programs, community resources, affordable housing and other concerns. Staff are trained to direct you to community agencies/programs for assistance.
SHIP (State Health Assistance Insurance Program) - Whether you are new to Medicare or want to review options for supplemental coverage, our SHIP counselors offer official insurance assistance through Hendricks County Senior Services. Call to set a one-on-one 90 minute appointment.
Legal - Legal aid is available by appointment. We offer access to free legal services through a partnership with the Senior Law Project. Pre-retirement, financial and estate planning seminars are also offered.
Housing and Home Healthcare Options - Options for assisted living, subsidized and affordable senior housing, long term care, and rehabilitation facilities are available. The senior center is filled with information on healthcare and other businesses who partner with us to provide services to seniors. Staff is available for further questions and information.
Tax Preparation - Tax preparation is available in cooperation with AARP. Trained tax preparers are available during tax season to help with basic, non business tax returns. Appointments are scheduled at the end of January and are offered at sites in within Hendricks County and at Hendricks County Senior Services.
Call 317-745-4303 for more information.
Hendricks County Housing Market By the Numbers
SEPTEMBER 2021 REAL ESTATE NUMBERS (All 12 Townships in Hendricks County)
The Republican newspaper has arranged with the Builder Association of Greater Indianapolis to provide our readers with demographic and housing statistics for both existing and new home sales in Hendricks County. This info will be provided to us monthly.
With the real estate market in unprecedented territory, the paper will work to bring you information on both new home and existing home data for Hendricks County.
North Salem Local & Social
Several members of the Shelton family motored to Pennsylvania to attend the wedding of Zach and Heather Shelton last weekend. It was a good time with relatives and friends.
Happy to report Joan Keck is out of the hospital and doing much better. Hang in there, Joan! We all love you!
Getting lots of crops in during the nice weather. We are all thankful for the farmers. Combining beans inf fields nearby - very dusty - all done!
It sure has been a good growing season for weeds and grass. Keeps you busy trying to keep up.
Phyllis Booker, former North Salem resident, is now at assisted living at The Bridge at Westside Garden Plaza. Her address is 8614 W. 10th St., Apt. 314, Indianapolis, IN 46234.
Ryland Hill, daughter of Garrick and Haley, was honored for her 7th birthday with a party at her home, Sunday.
Mrs. Phyllis Pearcy attended the funeral of her friend, Barbara Baumgarter at Shelbyville, Saturday, and later visited with her son and family there.
Miss Steve and Carolyn Clark. Hope they are enjoying their new home in Danville.
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When possible, Fire Chief Kevin Basham said they would try and let the people know how many runs they have and what info they are allowed to release. Just to let people know how much time they were donating for our care. Thanks to all you volunteers - many times they have to leave family affairs and answer the calls. You are appreciated.
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Happy to have so many visitors at The Come Hang Out Store. New fall clothing being added. Also many come in and mention seeing something in The Republican. Guess Jerry knows I work overtime for him!
Always glad to have Liz Freeland visit the store. We sure miss her good homestyle cooking.
Perillo’s doing standing room only business. Many carry out orders. The Best!
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If we can give Ron Kneeland, our Town Cop, enough spare time from school watch, elderly people and such, he could add to his list care of their dogs! Sorry, Nancy, guess you’ll have to call Laronda Basham, Becky Compton, Sonnie Johnston, Joyce Larmer, Jane Maschmeyer, or someone else who have time on their hands! They will be happy to help you!
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Circle of Concern Stacy Oliver, son of Jim
Oliver. Our prayers are with Leroy Smith and all others.
Get well wishes to Lowell Pruitt, Lizton.
Sympathy to Roy and Katie Riggs family on the passing of their dear friend, Lloyd, helper for many years.
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If you have news, call Tinie at 765-767-6008,
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Volunteer for Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels delivers a nutritious, hot meal to homebound residents of Hendricks County.
Meals are delivered by a team of more than 120 volunteers. In addition to providing nutritious meals the organization provides a wellness check, complimentary pet food and human connection.
If you are interested in volunteering you can visit their website, HCMealson- Wheels.org, the site lists all volunteer needs and will give you the steps to get started. For as little as two hours a month Meals on Wheels volunteers can make a huge difference.
If you would like more information about becoming a client or volunteer, you can visit their website or call Renee Harlor at 317- 745-3469.
Garden Club Youth Poetry Contest
The Hendricks County Garden Club is pleased to participate in the National Garden Clubs’ 2021 Youth Poetry Contest! We encourage youth in grades K-9 to explore their creativity and submit an original poem that relates to this year’s theme: Sing with the Songbirds — Exploring the Glory of Nature.
Poems may be traditional verse, acrostics, blank verse, cinquains, diamond poems, limerick, or haiku.
The submission deadline is November 12, 2021. One winner per grade will be selected and poems and poets (identified by first name and last name initial only) will have their poems printed in the HCGC’s youth poetry electronic booklet (potentially the poet’s first published work!) available online free and downloadable.
Winners will be featured on the Facebook page of the HCGC (Facebook.com/ HendricksCountyGarden- Club).
HCGC winners will be submitted to the state contest. State winners will be entered into the national contest.
For more informationand all contest rules, visit: https://bit.ly/HCGC_ Youth_Poetry
Virtual Silent Auction by Plainfield Friends of Library
The Plainfield-Guilford Township Friends of the Libraryare proud to host their first virtual silent auction, Bid It To Win It!
The auction bidding begins Friday, October 22 and runs through midnight on Friday, October 29. Proceeds from the auction will go directly to the Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library to help support literacy and community events.
Participation in the virtual silent auction is easy! Bidding for the auction can be done from a smartphone or computer. Bidders will receive a notification if they are outbid so they can re-up their bid.
The silent auction includes a variety of themed packages for all ages and interests. Families can enjoy a Deluxe S’more Package experience, Indiana State Museum outing, or an outdoor adventure like meeting the horses at Strides To Success. In addition, families can enjoy other packages like the Pizza Package where the winner receives two large pizzas per month for a year. A few other package examples are:
Farm Package: Beasley’s Orchard gift card; Anderson Orchard gift card; Private tour of Hunter’s Honey Farm; Meet & Greet the Horses at Strides to Success
Pet Package: Katie’s Grooming gift card; Pet supplies and treats from Speck’s Pet Supply; Pet Portrait by local artist Kylin Brown
Garden Package: Great Lakes Ace Hardware gift card; Garden layout by Master Gardener John Chapin; Mum plant from Cox’s Plant Farm; Mosquito Joe’s yard treatments; Damman’s Garden Center gift card
Date Night Package : One night stay at Embassy Suites Hotel; Schakolad 1 lb. “You Pick” Box of Chocolates; Guggman House Brewing Company gift card
To bid on your favorite packages visit https://go.rallyup.com/f58246 beginning Friday, October 22. Bidding ends on Friday, October 29, 2021, so be sure to check on bids throughout the week. For more information visit www.plainfieldlibrary.net.
Senior Center Membership
Membership in the Hendricks County Senior not only provides extra benefits, but membership dollars are an important part of the funding providing the wide variety of activities and workshops offered to all senior citizens in Hendricks County.
The annual membership fee is $55 per person. The cost of membership is only $.22 per day for the 247 days the Senior Center isopen a year.
Membership enables you to participate in activities and programs that are exclusively for members and provides discounts to members when a fee is charged for an activity or program.
Becoming a member is easy. Simply visit the Senior Center, complete a Membership Form and pay the membership dues. Members can renew their membership online. Visit hcseniors.org to learn more.
Blessings Box at Fairgrounds
If you or your organization would like to help with stocking the Blessing Box at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds, please go to the link and sign up for some non-perishable food items or personal care items. These items do not seem to stay very long in the Blessing Box and we would like to help aid the people of Hendricks County.
The link to help the Blessing Box at theHendricks County Fair Grounds: https://bit.ly/ BlessingBox2021.
Listen to HSO Online
The Hendricks Symphony Orchestra is offering new and encore performance on their website, www.HendricksSymphony. org. Click on “Media” then on “Recordings.”
Donations toward the HSO’s 2021-2022 season may be made by visiting the “Donate” page on the website.
Free Online Tutoring for SAT, Math & AP Courses
The Indiana Department of Education announced a new partnership with Schoolhouse.world to support students in grades eight through 12 with free tutoring for SAT preparation, math courses and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
Schoolhouse.world was launched in early 2020 by Sal Khan, also founder of Khan Academy, in response to COVID-19 learning disruptions. The nonprofit connects students with live, small-group tutoring through Zoom at no cost. Tutoring currently focuses on SAT reading, writing and math, with a math focus on pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus and statistics. Support is also available for AP courses including AP Calculus, AP Statistics, AP Chemistry, AP Biology, AP Physics and AP Computer Science.
“We are excited to partner with the Indiana Department of Education to provide free tutoring to students across Indiana,” said Drew Bent, chief operating officer of Schoolhouse.world.
In addition to resources through Schoolhouse.world, Khan Academy and College Board offer free SAT practice resources. This free resource comes as all Indiana high school juniors prepare to take the SAT this spring. Students can visit Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy – a personalized online program that helps students practice for the SAT with thousands of sample questions, instant feedback, video lessons and full-length practice tests. Nationwide, more than 10 million students have signed up for free SAT practice through Khan Academy.
To learn more about these learning resources, and to sign up for a tutoring session, visit www.schoolhouse. world or www.khanacademy.org.
CIK9 Association Celebrates; Raises Funds
The CIK9 training facility has been designed by SEBREE architect Salil Nair and includes many opportunities for community use in addition to the K9 training.
By Melissa Gibson
In an effort to continue raising funds for a K9 training faculty in Central Indiana, many gathered to celebrate the current progress at TOPGOLF in Fishers last weekend.
The red carpet was full of recognizable faces, including Brian Calvert and Dixie the Praying Dog and television’s SEAL Team Justin Melnick and K9 Dita.
“I met the people with CIK9 a while ago during a training. They do a really good job of helping law enforcement, setting up training and helping with medical needs for the K9’s so I was honored to come out and support them today,” said Melnick.
Calvert said he welcomed any opportunity to support the dogs who help and protect first responders and military personnel.
Other VIPs in attendance included, Central Indiana K9 Association (CIK9) co-founders, Theresa Brandon and Kyle Schafer, world-renowned artist Susan Bahary, SEBREE Architect and President Salil Nair, PetPals host Patty Spitler and CIK9’s 2021 Working Dog of the Year, Liso-Lee and handler Lindsay Rozzel.
The focus for all attendees remained on the K9’s and CIK9’s mission to build a training facility for dogs and their handlers.
Calvert, Melnick, Bahary, emcee for the event, Ken Owen and TSA Officer Keith Gray.
SEBREE architectural firm has designed the facility, complete with a monument, modeled after K9 Harlej (Fishers K9 who died in the line of duty) and created by Bahary.
Bahary has been recognized in Washington D.C. and across the country for her work on the country’s first war dog memorial, “Always Faithful”, displayed at the Pentagon.
“I really got to feel the heart of the military and law enforcement and see how incredible the people are. They are so selfless. I was touched by that, whether it’s the human sacrifice or the animal’s sacrifice,” Bahary said.
“In a world where there tends to be division and going through a pandemic, it’s great to recognize the good and there’s so much good about those who serve, including the animals. It’s something we can all agree on and we can all celebrate,” she continued.
The facility is estimated to cost $2 million and the association is currently looking for 3-5 acres of property to build.
Training can often be expensive, require travel and time away from family and duty. With a local training facility, the 196 K9 teams in Central Indiana, would be able to train more often, at less cost and provide a location close to home which the entire community could benefit from. K9’s provide safety to law enforcement, military and others and have saved countless lives.
“The dogs are tools for law enforcement personnel,” Brandon said. “They are very effective and law enforcement considers them to be a ‘force multiplier’. They do everything from search and rescue to bomb sniffing with TSA. They really do serve us. They are highly trained and serious athletes, serving alongside those that protect us.”
The CIK9 Association wants to pay honor and respect to those animals that have worked to protect our police officers and the community. They have a Shadow Fund, a grant for retired K9’s that have major medical issues due to their line of work.
Keith Gray and retired K9 Ttirado drew winners of the evening raffle with prizes ranging from a weekend stay and Brown County Bed and Breakfast to necklaces from Robert Goodman Jewelers.
The event was sponsored by Koorsen Fire and Security, SEBREE Architects, Tactipup, PetPals, ICON, Current, Dixie the Praying Dog, REX Specs, Robert Goodman Jewelers, Hot Box Pizza, Ultimate Canine, Walmart and Fox 59.
Next week, learn how Brandon and Bahary are continuing their work to recognize service animals on a national level.
Prairie Maze At McCloud
It happens only once every 17 years, so McCloud Nature Park in honors the cicada this year with the McCloud Prairie Maze!
Celebrate the 2021 cicadas with a trip through the cicada-themed prairie maze, now through October 31.. Be sure to dress for the weather, wear comfortable closed-toe shoes, and bring some water. Bring the nymphs, too, as this maze is appropriate for all ages!
Admission to McCloud Nature Park and the prairie maze is absolutely FREE, and both are open from dawn to dusk daily. To access the prairie maze, park in the Nature Center parking lot. Maps to the maze are available in the kiosk outside of the Nature Center, as well as in the kiosk at the entrance to the maze.
McCloud Nature Park is located at 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem.
Farmers Grow Community Grants
The Bayer Fund is hosting the 2022 America’s Farmers Grow Communities program, which has been revamped to make it even easier for farmers across the country to find and fund the organizations and institutions that keep their communities thriving.
From now 2 to November 1, eligible farmers can enroll for the chance to direct a donation to a local eligible nonprofit organization, school STEM or youth agriculture program. For 2022, Bayer Fund will double the individual donations to $5,000, up from $2,500 in previous years.
Farmers are eligible to enroll in Grow Communities if they are 21 years of age or older and are actively engaged in farming at least 250 acres of any crop.
To enroll or learn more about Grow Communities, including program eligibility and rules, farmers can visit www.AmericasFarmers.com or call 1-877-267- 3332 toll-free.
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.
Fans Tune In to Hendricks County’s WYRZ For News, Music & Much More
Executive Director Shane Ray has been a familiar voice on WYRZ for six years.
By Melissa Gibson
The crew from WYRZ has brought local news, high school sports, locally produced programs and some great music to the airwaves since 2013.
“We’re an educational station,” said Executive Director Shane Ray. “Our mission is to teach young people interested in going into broadcasting. We give high school students time on the air; they help write or edit news stories and we’ve seen some of them go on to host radio shows or work with television stations.”
On-Air radio hosts include Ray, Daryl Chiletz (DCtheDJ), Paul Poteet, Allen Kiger, Brian Scott and Kevin Robinson (KRob) and listeners tune in to a variety of music and interviews with local non-profits, government officials and organizations such as the Brownsburg Lions and the Carmel Symphony Orchestra.
While things have been going well for the past six years, earlier this year, the station hit a snag, causing many to lose their connection to their favorite radio station.
The non-profit, educational station, WYRZ has a license through the Hendricks County Education Media Corporation and relies on listener’s support.
“I was on vacation and started getting messages on social media that another station was coming in. That could be due to weather at times, but when I got back to town, I realized, it’s not the weather, it’s actually WMYJ,” Ray said.
The application through the FCC is actually quite extensive, but Ray believes, something slipped through the cracks this time.
“When you apply for a license with the FCC, you have to prove with an engineering report that your station will not interfere with a television station or another radio station,” Ray said. “When we went on the air, 98.9 was completely clear, that’s why we chose that one. We’re a small non-profit and our antenna can’t be more than 100 feet high and we’re at 100 watts.”
This means, WYRZ should easily cover Hendricks County, certainly protected within the Town of Brownsburg (where the office is located) but reaching out as far as the southern part of Plainfield and west of Danville.
Today, Ray can hear WMYJ on his car radio in the heart of Brownsburg.
The Martinsville station was originally an AM station and use a translator to broadcast to their FM station, 100.5 FM. Recently, the station, owned by Mid America Radio of Bloomington received permission from the FCC to post a second translator in Mooresville, but they put the translator on the same frequency as WYRZ.
“It may look good on paper, but it’s not working out in reality,” Ray said. “The new translator from WMYJ is 250 watts and is 235 feet in the air. I contacted them and spoke to an engineer who said they were afraid [interference] might happen. They said it was accepted by the FCC and they would make sure everything was in accordance.”
Ray interviews local leaders like Avon Police Assistant Chief Brian Nugent (right) regarding an upcoming fundraising event.
Ray suggested swapping the frequencies from Martinsville with Mooresville, lowering the chance of interference and was promised a call back but didn’t hear from WMYJ until The Republican reached out to inquire about the situation.
With no reply to The Republican or follow up with Ray at WYRZ from WMYJ, to resolve the situation Ray will begin the process of reporting the interference to the FCC. Approval for WMYJ was most likely an oversight but at this point, WYRZ will have to show the numerous attempts to resolve the issue on their own, as well as the disapproval and disappointment from listeners regarding the interruption.
“We need to hear from our listeners,” Ray said. “We need people that have been listening and haven’t been able to due to the interference from the other station and they aren’t happy about this change.”
In order to lend support and log a complaint, contact the station at 317-852- 1610, email info@wyrz. org or email Ray directly at shane@wyrz.org.
Community Celebrates Matt Alexander with Fundraiser
Matt Alexander played for AJAA and Avon High School for many years.
By Melissa Gibson
In April 2021, eight people were killed and several more injured as a gunman opened fire at the Indianapolis FedEx facility.
Thirty-two-year-old Matt Alexander, an Avon High School graduate, was one of those victims, changing his family and community forever.
“Matt had a heart of gold,” Debbie Alexander, Matt’s mother said. “We heard so many cool stories the night of the viewing. We had no idea our son had touched so many people.”
The avid sports fan loved the St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, Butler basketball and the Buffalo Bills.
“He loved to travel and on the drop of a dime, he’d do anything for anybody, not just close friends or family,” father, Brad Alexander said. “He’d always say, ‘thank you’ and friends and family knew that coming from Matt it was deep from the heart. That night at the viewing, we knew what kind of son we had, but never knew how many lives he touched. It was so gratifying to see that we had an idea but never to this extent.”
His only sibling, younger sister Michelle, grew up on the baseball fields with him and misses his dry sense of humor and thoughtfulness.
Alexander began playing T-ball at the age of five and participated in baseball and basketball through AJAA. He then played for Avon High School and even came back the first two summers at Butler University to umpire at AJAA.
“We were pretty close, explained Michelle. “I’m a Type A and he’s Type B, so we we’re complete opposites, but we complemented each other. We were big on being a family of four and it feels weird without him, I’m missing my other half.”
He was laid back, had a large group of friends and liked to go with the flow, but made a name for himself with his giving and energetic spirit.
“You knew he loved you,” Debbie said. “He had an infectious smile and a fun laugh. If a friend called and said, ‘Let’s go to a game’, he’d go in a heartbeat.”
Literally, overnight, the community of Avon began surrounding the family with love and support.
“Our faith and God has placed the right people in our path at the right moment for the past six months. We were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support; the meal trains, all the people asking what they could do… those are the things that got us through the first couple of weeks,” Debbie said.
Within hours, the Avon baseball team was recognizing Alexander with a moment of silence, the flag flown at half mass and an official retiring of Alexander’s number 16.
Over the summer, members of the Avon Police Department, Avon Community School Corporation and the Danville Police Department quietly worked to deliver an official Cardinals jersey with Alexander’s No. 16 on the back, with Hall of Fame Cardinal, Ozzie Smith’s signature. They had a letter from the Cardinals as well as a jersey made by the Indianapolis Indians with the No. 16 and the special acts of support didn’t stop.
As the family was planning the funeral for Alexander, they came up with an idea to ensure Alexander could continue coaching and leading young men through baseball.
They established the Matt Alexander Baseball Memorial Scholarship Fund, a non-profit, 501c3 and plan to award a $1,600 scholarship to an Avon High School baseball player with plans for the future in May.
As a ‘thank you’ to the community, Debbie said the free Zander Community Night at the AJAA fields, from 4-9 p.m. Oct 22 will be a great evening for families.
Matt Alexander and his sister, Michelle, loved to spend time together and with their family.
An online auction will begin Oct. 18 through Oct. 24 and includes autographed items from Tony Dungy, Bob Knight, Danica Patrick and the Colts. Week-long trips to Florida, home décor and more are also up for auction. The items will be displayed at the AJAA fields during the event.
There will be a live DJ, a dunking-for-dollars tank, a first responders baseball tournament (including Avon, Plainfield and Danville Police as well as Brownsburg Fire), a police dog exhibition at 6:15 and appearances by Dixie the Praying Dog, popular sports mascots and more.
On Oct. 23 and 24, 8U, 10U, 11U and 13U baseball and14U, 16U, girl’s fastpitch, men’s and co-ed slow-pitch softball tournaments will be underway at the AJAA fields and nearby RBJ fields. Participate in the tournament costs $300 and each team will receive 12 custom T-shirts, featuring a special phrase the family feels describes Alexander the best.
Tournament fees, T-shirts for sale and other donation opportunities will all go toward the Memorial Scholarship.
“Live a Good Story” is the message the family hopes to share and spread in memory of their son, but also to encourage the good in the world.
“Spend time with your family,” Debbie said. “Tell them you love them, give them a big hug. When something horrible like this happens, remember to celebrate their life. Just live a good story and live your life to the fullest.”
The family has made a bucket list of items they’d like to plan in honor of Alexander, including a trip to the Buffalo Bills/Colts game scheduled in late Nov. Friends and family claim this time, they’ll all wear Buffalo Bills gear and support the Bills in honor of Alexander. The family also plans to visit Scotland and Ireland; a trip Alexander has always wanted to take.
For more information, regarding the tournament, making a monetary donation or a silent auction dona tion, please email: malexmorial@gmail.com or visit the AJAA site, https://www.ajaaonline.org/Default.aspx?ta bid=2740118
Safely Dispose of Unwanted Medicines at 6 Locations
There are six locations in Hendricks County where you can safely dispose of prescription or non-prescription drugs that are outdated or unwanted.
Avon Police Station: 6550 East US Hwy 36; Hours, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., M-F; 317-272-4485.
Brownsburg Police Station: 31 North Green Street; Open 24 Hours; 317-852-1109.
Danville Police Station: 49 North Wayne Street; 8 a.m. - noon & 1 - 4 p.m., M-F; 317-745-4180.
Hendricks Co. Sheriff’s Office: 925 East Main Street, Danville; 24 Hours; 317-745-6269.
IU Health West Hospital: 1111 Ronald Regan Pkwy, Brownsburg; 24 Hours; 317-217-3000.
Plainfield Police Station: 1075 West Main Street; 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., M-F; 317-838-3565
No illicit drugs or medical sharps accepted. Medicines should be kept in their original packaging. Personal information may be removed or blacked out.
This program is a partnership between local law enforcement, the Hendricks County Recycling District and Covanta’s Prescription for Safety Program (RX4Safety).
After 67 Years, National Guard Armory Still Serves
A telephone caller to The Republican office asked where to take donations for the Afghanistan refugees at Camp Atterbury. “I think it was the Legion,” they said. We replied that it was the Armory. “Where’s that?”
For 67 years, the National Guard Amory at Danville has serve the Nation in time of need and provided a space for many community activities.
In 1950, it was announced that appropriations had been approved for the construction of six armories in Indiana. Captain Sam Eggers of the local National Guard reported that Hendricks County had a good chance of scoring one of the buildings.
The Hendricks County Commissioners agreed that if chosen, they would donate 4.76 acres to the State of Indi-ana as a site for the armory.
In 1953, stakes were set for the building located east of where the new Hendricks County Jail is currently being built. The proposed cost was around $190,000, with 25% coming from the State of Indiana and 75% contributed by the federal government.
The 14,000 sq ft. building would be modeled after the one located in Greencastle. It would be faced with brick and include a 60 x 40 ft. auditorium. The building would contain offices, lockers, showers, kitchen, and storage areas. It would be available for public use except on drill nights or other military uses.
In June, 1953, a benefit, “On Stage America” for the National Guard was organized and held at the Danville Park. It featured a amateur talent contest and Tiny Tot Popularity Contest. Brucie Baker, son of Mr. and Mrs. Rawley Baker, was crowned King and Candy Wellman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Wellman, Jr. was voted Queen of the Tots. A total of $391 was raised.
The Amory was dedicated on November 9, 1954. John Hughes, prominent Indianapolis attorney was the principal speaker.
On November 27, the new building was the site for “You Can’t Beat Fun,” a comedy directed Elizabeth Osborne, featuring a cast of local “celebrities” including Fr. Anthony McLaughlin, Marion Sanders, Hugh Weaver, El-mer Davission, Chuck Cummins, Bill Piel, Charles McCo-llum, Hugh Miller and Marvin Cassity, and Lloyd Hadley. The show was sponsored by the Danville National Guard, Co. H, 151st Infantry Regiment, to benefit recreational fa-cilities for the Armory.
Over the next half-century, the building served by the National Guard and the community. When the 4-H Fairgrounds were established on the land adjoining to the west, exhibitions were housed there.
In 1968, the Hendricks County Medical Society sponsored a massive measles immunization clinic.
The auditorium made a perfect setting for auction sales for many years.
In the 1990’s, the Danville Tri Kappa hosted its annual Kappa Kloset there.
The Hendricks County Humane Society hosted its Dogtona event there for several years before moving to the present fairgrounds.
Blood drives were often held inside the Armory. Also basketball games and wrestling tournaments,
In 2008, Members of the 38th Military Police occupied the Armory as they prepared for deployment to Iraq. A visit by a reporter for The Republican “found some of the young men and women, clad in desert camouflage, tossing footballs back and forth during a break in the training exercises.”
While those fairly new to Danville might pass it by without notice, many recognize it as an important part of Hendricks county history as it continues its role in National Guard.
The Armory’s dedication plaque in the building’s lobby.
National Guard members prepared for deployment at the Ar-mory in 2008. Left to right: Brian Clevenger, Cayse Madden, and Derick Gentry
Dogs and their owners enjoyed a day of games and treats when Dogtona took place in the Armory.
Humane Society Services
Hendricks Humane helps pet owners with pet food, unexpected pet medical expenses, dog or cat spay/neuter surgery expense and provides other pet resources. These and other programs are described below. Limiting staff to one part-time person, we are open by appointment only. This allows us to spend more on our programs and be more flexible to those needing services. Contact us via e-mail info@hendrickshumane.org or call 317-745-3338 to leave a message.
PET FOOD PANTRY - Hendricks County residents needing pet food should call the Humane Society (317- 745-3338) to leave a message clearly stating their name, phone #, type and number of pets and any special needs. Requests for pet food called in by Monday are filled on Wednesday for porch pick up between 1pm-6 pm. Exceptions can be made as well as deliveries in specific cases. We want to be sure pets have food.
PET OWNER ASSISTANCE – Assistance is available for residents in need of financial help when medical expenses or other care needs that may arise for their pets.
ADOPTIONS – Adoptable cats and kittens can be viewed on the website and adoption applications can be completed on the website. Only pre-approved adopters may schedule a meet & greet with one of our kittens or cats. All kittens and adult cats are in foster care only. Foster care benefits the health and well-being of the felines. We do not have dogs available for adoption and encourage those looking to adopt a dog to visit Facebook pages of Creekside Animal Rescue, Hendricks County Animal Shelter, and other Rescues for dogs needing homes.
HUMANE EDUCATION - Free programs are available for groups from pre-school through adult about humane care of animals.
SPAY/NEUTER - Financial assistance is available to Hendricks County residents whose pets need to be spayed or neutered. Periodically we offer discount vouchers, visit the website. We pay 100% for Pet Food Pantry participants to have their pets spayed or neutered. We pay 100% for all community (owned) cats to be spayed or neutered.
COMMUNITY CATS - TNR (Trap, Neuter/Spay, Return) of community (free roaming) cats is the humane way to end the cycle of unwanted, at-risk litters. Help requests can be submitted on the website to ask for assistance with trapping, to borrow humane traps, or for rescuing kittens. Since this program began in 2017, over 1,000 cats have been trapped, neutered, returned. And safe, loving homes have been found for over 450 kittens rescued from a difficult life.
CHIP & CLIP CLINIC (nail trims and microchip implant) – Generally held the second Sunday of the month is by appointment only. Please call 317-745-3338 well in advance to schedule an appointment for nail trims, nail caps for cats, microchips or if you have questions.
Visit the website www.hendrickshumane.org or contact us via email (info@hendrickshumane.org) or phone (317-745-3338). Someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
As a reminder, the Humane Society does not operate the Hendricks County Animal Shelter and Animal Control located at 250 E. Campus Blvd, Danville. Reports of suspected animal abuse or endangerment should always be directed to Hendricks County Animal Shelter & Control 317-745-9250. Emergency animal surrender needs should be directed to Hendricks County Animal Shelter & Control.
Former Danville Resident Inducted Into Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame
The name of a Danville man was recently added to the Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame as the 2021 class of induct-ees. The honorees have made “signficant and enduring contributions to the history of aviation and aerospace in Indiana, or the world, through achievement, leadership, exceptional service, innovation, or entrepreneurial spirit.”
The late Gordon Graham was a pilot, radio broadcaster, and promotor of general aviation in Indiana.
Graham started his radio career in 1938. working in Ohio, Alaska and WLBC in Muncie, Ind. In 1943, he or-ganized the Washington news bureau for WLW, Cincinna-ti. In 1946, he moved to Danville. He was a member of the Danville Town Board from 1952-56, where he served as president. In 1957, he became the first news director and anchor for WLWI (later WTHR-TV 13). He founded the Hendricks County Broadcasting Corporation in 1975 and established and was news director for WGRT-FM. Graham was also a lecturer at Indiana University.
During the 1960’s, he pursued various professional interests in New York before returning to central Indiana in 1968 to operate a free-lance TV film service producing documentaries for the Indiana State Police and others.
A private pilot, Gramham logged over 1,000 hours and was the first recipent of the Indiana Aviation Trades Asso-ciation for his state-wide promotion of community interest in air transportation.
These Honorees were inducted at the Hall of Fame Honors Banquet on October 1, 2021, in Carmel, Indiana. Their induction and membership was commemorated with a permanent Hall of Fame display plaque along with a personal medallion and award.
GORDON GRAHAM Information about the Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame, the Honors Banquet, and the INAHOF Legacy Members can be found at https://inahof.org.
Members of the Graham family attended the induction ceremony. Pictured left to right: Rick Graham, Brownsburg. James Pierson, Danville. Joan Able, Columbus, IN. James and Roberta Graham, Brownsburg. Donna Schoonover, Plano, Texas. Walter Able, Indianapolis. Julie Graham, Brownsburg. Stacy Able, Indianapolis. Bruce Graham, Brownsburg.
Gordon Graham’s children are James Graham and Joan Able. Grandchildren are Rick Graham, James Pierson, Donna Schoonover, Walter Able and Bruce Graham.
Representatives of the Graham family receive a Hall of Fame display plaque along with a personal medallion and award.
