36 minute read
Hendricks County
Avon Wedding Barn Hosts Festival of Trees
The beautiful display of lights and ornaments is a sight to see.
Advertisement
By Melissa Gibson
When Anthony and Barbarann Wheeler purchased the Avon Wedding Barn 18 months ago, they knew they wanted to find ways to reach out to the community and meet their new neighbors.
They also knew COVID had wreaked havoc on non-profit opportunities to fundraise and holiday get-togethers were scarce.
Barbarann had previously volunteered for a tree festival in Ashland, Ky, and decided to host the first Festival of Trees in Avon on their property.
Sponsors in the community purchase a tree and decorate it in honor of their favorite non-profit in Hendricks County. The non-profit information is included at the base of the tree and the community bids on their favorite, purchasing the tree for home and/or voting for their choice of best decorations, best display and more.
The top three trees in a variety of categories earn the non-profit a financial gift.
Last year, the event raised more than $8,500 for the participating non-profits and Wheeler is ready to do it again. “We’ve had a good response from the non-profits wanting to participate and we have some new ones this year. Registration is technically closed, but if I can fit you in, I will,” Wheeler said. “The barn is already decorated and the Avon DECA club came out and helped us. They made giant lollipops out of pool noodles and giant candy canes out of pvc pipe. They had a lot of fun and it looks great.” Walking up to the barn, guests will be handed a scavenger hunt worksheet, giving the entire family something to search for throughout the evening. There will be a second barn with crafts offered to the children, two large firepits with smores, a food truck and a Santa golf cart ride outside.
New this year, the open hours are extended to allow more ticketed visitors throughout the weekend, special hours are set aside for children with sensory needs and a large sleigh will be the backdrop for photo opportunities. There will also be a gingerbread contest for families throughout the weekend.
Over a dozen large trees and a dozen small are displayed throughout the barn, lights twinkling and ornaments sparkling for a colorful scene beyond most holiday displays.
Underneath each tree, information about the non-profit and sponsors is available so guests can learn more about the support and services in the county.
Last year, nearly 900 people walked through the barn and a several trees sold for hundreds of dollars.
Adjacent to the tree display, Cabin Coffee will be on hand for a warm beverage, kettle corn and a food truck will offer tasty treats. Around the corner, children have the opportunity to visit with Santa and take photos.
“We thought this was a way to start some joy,” Wheeler said. “It’s fun to do as a family and we’re new, but we’ll find out more about the community and we want to help as many non-profits as we did last year, or more.”
There will also be entertainment throughout the day, including local show choirs and church choirs to fill the barn with carols and holiday music.
Custom Blooms will be doing a wreath making contest and sponsoring classes on Nov. 28 and Dec. 8 for those interested in creating their own wreath for the door.
Wheeler is grateful for the help she receives from family and friends and hopes to continue to grow the event.
“The Festival of Trees takes a whole community. It’s good for the Avon Wedding Barn. Many people come by just to check it out and others didn’t know we were here, but I love that we get to meet new faces and see all of these smiles,” Wheeler said.
Tickets sell out quickly. Visit http://awb.thundertix. com for tickets or the Avon Wedding Barn Facebook page for more information. If you miss purchasing a ticket this year, don’t forget, the bidding on your favorite tree is also offered virtually. The Avon Wedding Barn Facebook page has updated information on how to access the bidding site.
Each tree is themed, like this Candy Land themed tree for Angels Anonymous. For more information, visit The Avon Wedding Barn Facebook page, along with information on how to bid on your favorite dree
Plainfield Merchant Chatter
Earth Wear Rock Shop: 309 West Main Street, Downtown Plainfield, Ind., has a HUGE selection of Gems, Minerals, Fossils & Handcrafted Jewelry all at reasonable prices. Join us Black Friday for super SALES! Make sure to get out on Saturday to support those local small businesses for Small Business Saturday!
With your purchase at Earth Wear Rock Shop ENTER TO WIN one of 2 awesome LARGE ROCK GIVEAWAYS! Thank you for the support in this tradition, on Saturday and all through the year. It’s greatly appreciated!
Thanksgiving Week Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 11-4, Thursday Closed, Friday & Saturday 10-5, Sunday Closed, Monday Closed.
HRH Holiday Cards for Sale
The Hendricks Regional Health Pediatric Unit invites you to purchase our patients’ artwork transformed into holiday greeting cards!
For $12 (includes a $2 flat shipping charge), you will receive a bundle of 10 assorted greeting cards that are sure to spread holiday cheer this season.
All proceeds will benefit the Childbirth Center and Pediatric Unit Fund through the Hendricks Regional Health Foundation.
To order online, please go to supporthendricks.org. All orders will be shipped within a week after purchase.
These unique cards will also be available for purchase on Saturday, November 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Hendricks County ICON’s 2021 Holiday Craft Show at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex.
Nature Center Winter Hours
The McCloud Nature Center has switched to winter hours. The Nature Center is typically open Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed noon-1 pm for lunch).
The Nature Center will be closed Nov 26-27 for Thanksgiving.
Heated restrooms are open from dawn to dusk, as well as the trails at Mc- Cloud Nature Park.
Pittsboro Local & Social
Pittsboro Christian Church Shepherd’s Shelves Food Pantry was the recipient of 3,628 pounds of food donated by the Pittsboro Schools during their recent food drive. We are very grateful for their kindness and we thank them very much. The students were very helpful.
_____
Congratulations to our Tri-West Bruins on a fine football season. Your community is very proud of you. Thank you to everyone for their dedication and hard work.
__________
SWCD Board Meeting Date
The Hendrick County Soil & Water Conservation District Board Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at 7:30 a.m. will be held at 6759 N County Rd 100 E, Pittsboro.
Please call Teri Lents at the SWCD office 317-745- 2555 if you have any questions.
~W.J. Cameron
Chili Dinner Cook Off
Living Christ Lutheran Church, 4800 S CR 600 E, Plainfield, is hosting a Christmas Chili Dinner Cook off on Saturday, December 4, from 4 - 8 p.m.
The evening includes Christmas Cookie Walk, Chili Dinner Bar, and Christmas caroling. Bring your friend and family to share this evening with you.
Tickets are $10, adults; $5 children ages 3-12; Tables of 8, $75. Carry out tickets are $8, adults and $4, children.
The event is co-sponsored by Thrivent Financial Actions Team.
Be Well Crisis Hotline
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration offers the Be Well Crisis Helpline, a confidential resource available through Indiana 211 that will allow Hoosiers to call and speak with a trained counselor 24/7.
The Be Well Crisis Helpline is funded by a Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. In Indiana the program becomes part of the state’s new Be Well Indiana initiative. Additional information about the mental health resources available to Hoosiers is available at BeWellIndiana.org.
-Elbert Hubbard
Celebrates 100 th Birthday
Louise Frances Little (Frannie) celebrated her 100th Birthday with her friends and family on Saturday at MCL Cafeteria in Avon. Frannie was born November 22, 1921 in Indianapolis.
Plainfield’s Prewitt Theater Gets Grant
A theater in downtown Plainfield was among 11 properties to receive funding through the the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs’ Historic Renovation Grant Program.
The Keller Huff Group was awarded $85,637 to renovate and preserve The Prewitt Theater in Plainfield. The theater opened in November of 1927 and was used as a movie theater until it closed its doors in 2005. The Keller Huff Group is renovating and restoring the theater into an upscale restaurant and event center. Upon completion, the Prewitt Theater expects to provide five or six full-time jobs and up to 35 part-time jobs.
“Historic structures are some of the most powerful storytellers in Hoosier communities,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch. “The preservation of historic properties is integral to retelling Indiana’s history to future generations. This funding will help ensure communities can continue their Hoosier tradition and stories for years to come.”
Eligible properties for this grant program must be at least 50 years old and either listed on the register of Indiana historic sites and structures, be listed or eligible for listing to the National Register of Historic Places, or be listed as a contributing resource in a National Register District.
Eligible applicants include non-profits, individuals, partnerships, firms, associations, joint ventures, limited liability companies, corporations or non-profit affordable housing organizations. Awarded properties will receive funding for the renovation and preservation of exterior features.
Publisher’s Point of View
Happy Holidays?
Happy holidays everyone. Before you judge the use of this word instead of Merry Christmas, please read on.
This time of year is a bit of a paradox to me. We are taught as youngsters that Thanksgiving and Christmas are times to be around those who love us and to appreciate the good things in our life.
As kids, they let us out of school during these times so that we can be with our families and loved ones for fun and games and food. But for good reason a lot of us grownups don’t have the same feeling about the holidays as we once did. A lot of us “hate” the holidays. Just hearing the word can cause crippling anxiety. For some, the season of giving becomes the season of dread. How did this happen? We let it happen. Why did we let it happen? That’s a question only we can answer for ourselves.
Interesting, as I am writing this, I just looked up the word “holidays” and here is what it said: “Leisure time away from work devoted to rest or pleasure.” Wow. That got me interested in the origin of this word so I looked up “holiday” in the etymology dictionary. Funny how something so obvious can be overlooked. The word “holiday” came from Old English and literally means “Holy Day”. If you look at the word it’s right there, holi-days. Who knew? So, why do we get upset when we are wished Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas? That’s a question only you can answer for yourself.
This may sound easier than it is, but maybe worth a try. Identify what is keeping you from that magical feeling of the “holidays” as a kid, and change it. Only you have the power to do that. No one else can or will. Good luck.
From all of us here at The Republican newspaper, we truly wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving, a magical Christmas and most of all, yes, you guessed it, Happy Holidays.
Fred Rogers
Letters To The Editor
Letters to the Editor must include the writers name, address and contact phone number. Names may be withheld by request. Letters over 300 words are subject to editing.
Dear Editor:
A reader recently sent you a published letter criticizing Republicans in Congress for not voting for the capital improvements bill The Congressional House Democrats just passed. Many of us know why the GOP says no.
The Democrat House has passed no budget. Thus there is no discipline in Washington. According to national news sources I read less than a third of the bill is designed for capital improvement. The rest is welfare & climate spending. The Congressional Budget Office projects the bill will increase our deficit by $367 Billion.
In turn deficit spending is a hidden tax, it forces more federal borrowing & can lead to increased taxation. I read the bill’s cost is more like $4.6 Trillion over 10 years than the $2 Trillion advertised. Thus the dangers of even more borrowing & higher tax bills are real.
In turn, the increased pumping of money into the economy, the marketplace, especially in this time of low supply of goods & services, causes inflation. Inflation lowers purchasing power & reduces wage gains.
It is better to spend within your means than spend more outside your means. Common sense says the bill is bad.
Unfortunately, I read much of the economic, business & political world sees no danger in deficit spending, believing it is fine merely to print more cash. Again, common sense condemns this type of thinking.
It seems greed (for cash & votes) is winning. We must support the prudent arguments against greed & power. Government is not truly by or for the people when good citizens do not think & vote.
Sincerely, Greg Black
Program Raises Awareness of Cognitive Disorders
A new program, created by the Avon Police Department, is a campaign to help raise awareness of first responders to cognitive disabilities and medical-related impairments when it matters most.
Through the AWARE program, a quick and identifiable 4” emblem/sticker can be placed on vehicles and residences to indicated that first responders may likely interact with an individual with a cognitive disorder. I n - dividuals with cognitive disabilities such as Autism, Down Syndrome, Dementia, or a similar cognitive diagnosis can benefit from AWARE being in their community.
Agencies that join the AWARE campaign are required to obtain a medical professional referral from a physician before providing the emblems/stickers to their clients.
The AWARE logo gives law enforcement officers and EMTs a quick and easy way to identify the potential that they may be encountering an individual who is less likely to understand, comprehend, or engage officers in what may be typically received as a normal fashion. AWARE aims to reduce unnecessary use of force by officers who may reasonably misinterpret the actions of a cognitively disabled individual. The AWARE campaign serves as the newest de-escalation and mental health awareness tool available to law enforcement.
Current membership agencies include: Avon Police Department; Avon Schools Police Department; Amo I Police Department; Brownsburg Police Department; Brownsburg Schools Police Department; Clayton Police Department; Danville Schools Police Department; Danville Police Department; Hendricks County Communications Center; Hendricks County Sheriff’s Department; I.U. West Hospital Police Department; Lizton Police Department; North Salem Police Department; Plainfield Police Department; and Stilesville Police Department
While AWARE is currently limited to law enforcement agencies in Hendricks County, it’s hoped to expand it throughout Central Indiana.
Consumers wishing to enroll in the program can complete the medical professional referral form by going to https://awareprogram.info and delivering the signed and complete form to their local participating law enforcement agency. Participating agencies will then provide emblems/ stickers for registered vehicles and the primary residence for the consumer.
North Salem Local & Social
Holiday Lights & Coloring Contest The North Salem Revitalization Committee presents their annual Holiday Lights and Coloring Contest.
In the Light Contest, please submit your name and address to: NorthSalemRevitalization@gmail. com by December 20.
Community voting will take place on the website www.northsalemrevitalization.com and Facebook page. Voting ends December 31. Coloring Contest Forms for the Coloring Contest are available in the Town Hall or you can print them from the North Salem Revitalization Facebook. Entries must be submitted to the Town Hall by December 11. Be sure to check out all the great art work during the Eel River Township Winter Market at the Community Building, December 14, from 5-7 p.m.
Prizes will be awarded in both categories for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.
______
The Eel River Township Fire Department Fall Chili Supper was held in the Community Building last Saturday. Have you realized the Community Building was the former school bus housing until about 1988. Then Trustee Phyllis Kidd and board members Joyce Green, Peg Williams, and Sonnie Johnston undertook the challenge to convert it to the now community building. It is the meeting place for all events concerning our town.
_____
Winter Farmers Market
Be sure and mark your calendars for Tuesday, Dec. 14, 5 - 7 p.m., at the North Salem Community Building for the Winter Farmers Market, which has been having such a good response. This will be the last market until 2022.
Santa will be handing out goodie bags from the firetruck (and you can get a picture with him!).
Come shop local from lots of great vendors, including some new items: maple syrup, locally roasted ground coffee & Christmas ornaments.
North Salem Revitalization will be hosting a ham & bean supper. Choose from 2 different great meal deals, either ham & beans with cornbread and a drink, or hot dog/coney, chips and drink. Only $5 per meal! Dine in or take home available.
______
Recent callers have been: Alta Trump, Sonnie Johnston & Buddy (who loves to visit), Jim Basham and Bella (I always have a treat for Bella and send hone to Luna, his kitten. John and Dixie Harnishfeger dropped off their Christmas Hot Chocolate mix for Karen & Rick and me.
Cold day to have to dig and repair a water leak in town. Boys all looked really cold. Thanks to all. You are appreciated (even if we don’t tell you!).
How could I leave out my forever good neighbor Jim Oliver’s 91s Birthday on Nov. 15. Happy belated wishes from all of us. Daughter Teresa and hubby Jim visited her Dad Wednesday evening. Barbara and Jim are both having some health issues. Hope both of you are feeling better.
In appreciation of our local Fire Dept. & Town employees:
So many attended the Chili Supper Saturday evening. Know I’ll miss many as we were there early. Enjoyed visiting. Thanks to Tammy Lasley - her homemade sugar cream pies - #1 with my daughter Karen Hardman and many others. (They didn’t say anything about my peach pie - I told them I just put it a Marie Callander’s box!).
So many to see: David Moreland and his boys; Dick Himsel and wife - recalling church camping days: Mike & Barbara Schlagel - glad Butch is doing better, also their sonin-law and granddaughters; Johnny Ross, Ron Kneeland (our Town protector) along with wife Nancy, who is on Fire Dept., their dog used to come to the Bank and my window - they now take dogs on utility cart for rides around town; Martha Sellers - enjoyed visitingtook carry out home to Wilbur; Cindy Pearcy - enjoyed supper carry out to hubby, Bill; Amy Metzger, Phyllis Pearcy, Rick & Karen Hardman; always glad to have Blake Basham, son of Fire Chief Kevin Basham & Laronda - he pitched in and helped many; our Diane Neff with her favorite daughter, who is always there for her; Nancy Snyder, who advises her son Robb will be getting married in coming weeks; Robb Daffenbaugh, Gene McCullogh and friend Jim, the Browns from Clay Road (always supporting town), Steve and Linda Miller, son Jimmy Miller & wife, and of course, grandson Kyle Miller on Fire Dept., and his wife Josie and daughter Rylie; Robert Whitaker. So many of our young adults who volunteer their time to our town. Either Jacob or Joshua, sons of our former town cop, the late Donald Perry - now living in North Salem; the Walton girl with her friend and little daughter; missed Betty Bartley, hope she is feeling better.
See, you can’t take your Home Town our of many - so many people involved in town, doing what they can to keep our small town going; Missy Call, still helping many at the North Salem State Bank; Joyce Larmer and Jane Bernhardt, always helping others; Bill & Becky Compton, Linda and Riley Chaney, Mike & Caren Wray, Charles and Linda Baker, Danny Eggers, Darrell and Dorothy Coons, Sonnie Johnston, Chuck and Patty Bucy, the Sadlers; Mark and Teresa Basham and many others. Thanks to all - Kelly across from Food Market along with her grandchildren.
So many to come after we left. A real good turn out. Heard they about ran out of food. Good deal.
God’s blessings to one and all.
_____
A special Thank You to all who helped in the closing of our famous Come Hang Out Store. Many years in th making, but time of closing was right due to health issues and other situations. God’s blessings to all. We’ll miss not only the store but our many days of visiting and friendships.
_____
Circle of concern for so many: Joyce and Kenny Greene, The Leroy Smith Family, Deloris Shelton, Betty Bartley of The Republican, Barbara Porter, Dan Brown, Gerald Whiles, Mary Lou Morris, Linda Keeney, Rita Marie Lieske, Marcia Sowders, Bill Mundy. Any others in nursing homes or assisted living, and those unable to celebrate the upcoming Holidays with family and friends.
Thanks to the Danville, Jamestown and Pittsboro Fire Depts. who responded to a fire call at home of Jason and Nikkie Lowe - garage explosion - completely destroyed. The Lowes were not at home until late into the fire. Thankful home was not involved, or their dogs. Many neighbors and friends were there to help, if needed. Motorcycle and other big equipment destroyed. We are ail thankful for our Fire Dept. and the neighboring towns for their assistance. The Lowes own the former late Johnny Beeson property.
__________
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.
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 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.
- Cicero
Scholarships for National No-Till Conference
County farmers can apply for partial and full scholarships to the National No-Till Conference Jan. 4-7 in Louisville.
Participants will take home tips for the 2022 crop season from sessions led by leading agronomists, no-till farmers and through collaborative round-table discussions. Pesticide recertification credits are available.
Rick Clark will discuss how he makes large-scale organic no-till work on his 7,000-acre operation near Williamsport in Warren County. Clark focuses on building soil health through seeding cover crops, planting cash crops “green,” cutting inputs and raising
livestock.Conference website with full details is https:// www.no-tillfarmer.com/ nntc
Hendricks County Soil & Water Conservation District offers the scholarships. Contact the SWCD office in Danville at (317) 745- 2555, ext. 3.
IOOF Lodge Donates to The Gathering Together
Evalyn Edmondson (right), chaplain of McCarty Lodge #122 IOOF, recently presented a check to The Gathering Together in Plainfield.
Founded by Fiorentino in 2002, The Gathering Together offers support of families with loved ones in the final stages of life in an environment of dignity and love.
Located in an 1850’s Victorian home in Plainfield, offers a community room, guest rooms, and areas for contemplation and prayer.
“We created a safe environment that is not a nursing home or an institution, where families can be together,” Fiorentino explained.
The Gathering Together accepts people of all ages, based on need, during the final weeks of life. Most are under the care of local hospices.
Patients or their families are never charged for their stay. The Gathering Together is a nonprofit organization, funded solely by contributions. For more information visit their website at www.thegatheringtogether.org, on Facebook, or call 317-797-2795.
Santa Claus Coming to Lizton
Lizton Lions Club will host their annual holiday breakfast Saturday, December 4, from 8-11 a.m. in Lions Club Park. Santa will arrive by fire truck at 9 a.m. Free will donations will be accepted.
Homemakers Host Annual Holiday Fest
The Extension Homemaker Clubs host an Annual Achievement Day to celebrate the year’s accomplishments and plan next year’s activities.
Continued from page 1
The Holiday Fest is just one of the many things the Extension Homemakers do for the community. There are clubs located in every county in the state and what began as an educational outlet for women at home, has grown to be so much more.
“They started in 1913 with the goal of providing education for homemakers. They wanted to get the word out about latest news and modern trends,” Hesselman said. “We attend programs in the fall and spring and hear presentations on really anything, from finances and fraud to Instapot and air fryers.”
They hold two Make a Difference days per year, making tote bags for Riley Hospital for Children, neck pillows, quilts for the homeless and hygiene kits for the children at Headstart.
“Our other purpose is to strengthen families and to support our community,” Hesselman said. “We have ladies that volunteer to read to preschoolers and we put together the Hendricks County 4-H Fair books to share events and registration information for the fair.”
Clubs hold monthly meetings to discuss future plans and funds, set aside for Hendricks County teacher scholarships, student scholarships and other community support.
The Hendricks County Chorus, one of many Homemaker Clubs, have entertained with Valentine’s Day visits, Christmas Caroling, and at many county events, including North Salem Old Fashioned Days and Mayberry in the Midwest.
Anyone can join the club or get involved in some or all activities that work within your schedule. They even have “mailbox” members; people who may not be able to attend all events but want to stay up to date on future activities and plans.
Piles of children’s puppy pillows and neck pillows are created during one of the Homemakers Make A Difference Days
The club plans an annual cultural arts day trip and they also have an overnight event in the spring and fall for their district retreat.
“The friendships in our club have become strong because you get to know the ladies well. My grandmother was a homemaker and my mother was for a few years. You just meet these wonderful ladies from all over the county,” Hesselman said.
For more information, visit https://extension.purdue.edu/county/hendricks/hhs/ index.html or the Hendricks County Extension Homemakers on Facebook.
Archbishop Thompson Dedicates Mary Queen of Peace Addition
By Peg McRoy Glover
The Most Reverend Charles C. Thompson, Archbishop of Indianapolis, paid homage to the parishioners of Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Danville, with a dedication and blessing ceremony following Mass on Sunday, Nov. 21, for the parish’s newly constructed narthex, parish office, and religious education wing.
“It is indeed a pleasure to welcome Archbishop Thompson to our parish for the offering of the Holy Mass and solemn blessing of our newly built facilities,” said Reverend Father Michael C. Fritsch, Pastor of Mary, Queen of Peace.
Three hundred Mary, Queen of Peace parishioners and Mass servers gathered around Archbishop Thompson and Father Fritsch as they stood in the new narthex before the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus for the ceremony.
The ceremony began with Archbishop Thompson blessing the parishioners saying, “May the peace of Christ rule in our hearts, may the word of Christ dwell in you, and that all you do in work and in word you will do in the name of the Lord. May Almighty God bless and keep you all.” He then visited each classroom and office blessing those spaces with holy water.
The Archbishop jokingly teased Father Fritsch by saying that he double blessed his office.
This ceremony was the culmination of a process that began in 2015. The parish council had what they called a “visioning day.” They envisioned what the parish could look like in the future to enhance parish life. After much thought and prayer, they developed plans to build a new parish office, religious education classrooms, and a fellowship hall.
The narthex connects the existing church to the new parish office and religious education wing.
To bring these plans to fruition a building committee was formed. Parishioner townhalls were conducted so they could learn of the plans and voice their opinions. A three-year pledge capital campaign was started in hopes of raising the $3 million needed to begin construction.
That capital campaign fell short of the $3 million but enough was raised to begin construction on the much-needed offices and classrooms. The religious education building that was built in 1954 was leaky and unsafe and the parish offices were in the rectory.
That 1954 building was razed to make way for this new construction. In its place is a beautiful education wing with 11 classrooms and parish offices that are attached to the church with an expanded narthex.
“The newly constructed religious education wing, parish offices, and connecting narthex to our existing church is a sign of the vitality and continued growth of our parish within the larger community of Danville,” said Father Fritsch. “These are tangible results of people’s stewardship of their time, talent, and treasure.”
Father Fritsch (left) assists Archbishop Thompson during the ceremony
The parish council is already looking forward and eyeing two more construction projects that will fulfill the initial vision.
The rectory needs to be renovated where the previous offices were located. Plans are in the works to repurpose that space into a couple of guest rooms to accommodate visiting clergy.
Archbishop Thompson blesses the new space with holy water.
And that fellowship hall will provide an excellent gathering space for parishioners and the community.
The new religious education wing contains 11 classrooms.
Whispering Pines Offers Holiday Family Experience
Whispering Pines has been open for business since 1989. Trees are planted each year in anticipation of future generations of families
If you’ve never put on your snow boots, hats, gloves and coat and tromped out to a tree farm to select the perfect Christmas tree, you may be missing out.
Joe and Rita Evans began growing trees in 1983 at Evans Whispering Tree Farm in Danville and began selling them to the community in 1989.
They know all-too-well the experience selecting your own live Christmas tree gives to families because they grew up with a love and excitement for the trip.
“For me, as a kid, it was the excitement of Christmas. We couldn’t wait to get the tree and decorate it together,” Rita said. “Just being outside, picking the perfect one and deciding which one we all liked best. It’s the whole thing… bringing it into the house, setting it up in the living room, taking turns placing ornaments on the tree. It’s the beginning of Christmas.”
In 1983, the couple talked about their personal experience of taking their children out to a farm and cutting a Christmas tree down each year. They loved it so much, they decided to start their own.
“We had 10 acres at the time and we went to the state nursery and purchased 800 trees of all different sizes and variety. The entire family came out and we planted each one by hand. Today, we have a tree planter that plants 3,000 to 4,000 per day and we hadn’t done a lot of research at the time, but we’ve learned as we go,” Evans said.
They joined the Indiana Christmas Tree Growers Association and began attending summer meetings, complete with vendors and information to upgrade the current process.
Custom wreaths can be ordered or you can pick up a pre-made wreath during your visit.
For example, those that come out to Whispering Pines will be given a sled to bring their tree up to the car instead of hauling it by hand. They provide the saw if needed and the staff to help those requiring it, Each tree is mechanically shaken, bound in netting and loaded for a safe trip home.
While at Whispering Pines, families can visit Buddy, the miniature donkey and Macey, the pony.
Over Thanksgiving Weekend, there will be balloon animals and more.
On the first weekend of December, visitors can check out Bear Hollow chainsaw wood carvers and the amazing pieces of art they create.
The gift shop is full of holiday décor, gift ideas, and additions for the home.
Don’t forget to visit the gift shop while you’re there. They have an assortment of wreaths, Christmas décor, snow globes and lanterns.
The average cost of a tree is between $50 and $120, based on the size and selection.
“It’s a neat time for us. Families are excited and looking for that perfect tree,” Evans said.
It hasn’t always been easy running a tree farm. From 2010-2012, the farm experienced a heavy drought, killing most of Whispering Pines supply. They were closed last year, due to COVID, but Evans is excited to invite the community out for the special experience in 2021.
“We have Norway Spruce, Scotch Pine and White Pine to cut in the field,” Evans said. “This year, we’ve tagged the trees that are available and once those are gone, the field will be closed, but you could still get a pre-cut tree in the Frasier or Douglas Fir.”
Over the years, operations were mainly through Rita and her husband but their children are beginning to express interest in taking over the farm.
“They want to try some new things,” Evans said. “We’ve talked about offering a wreath class next year and I think we’re going to continue to grow.”
For now, the family is happy to give the gift of a special Christmas experience to families in Hendricks County.
Opening day is Friday, Saturday and Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. After the first weekend, regular hours will be Sun. through Friday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday’s, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Like their Facebook page for the most updated information and check beforehand before coming out to purchase a tree. Evans Whispering Pines is located at 1538 North 400 West, Danville.
Homeward bound: Christmas Tree hunters prepare to leave Whispering Pines.
Lowdown on Live Trees
The movie,“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” didn’t do the Christmas Tree industry any favors. Much of what we hear about live Christmas trees in the home are myths and with the proper care, the experience can be safe and brighten your holidays. Check out these tips and tricks from experienced tree farm owner, Rita Evans.
What kind of scent does the tree emit? It’s according to what type you get. The Concolor tree smells like oranges. Frasers and Douglas’ have a fresh, sweet smell and the White Pine is the least fragrant (possibly best for those with allergies). Are they a hassle to care for?
If you can help it, keep the tree out of a room with a fireplace, woodburning stove and away from registers, because the tree will dry out quicker. You want to be sure the tree is properly watered. Don’t let the water get below the bottom of the trunk because without it, the trunk will re-seal and you’ll have to cut a quarter inch off of the bottom to open it up. Warm water kept above the base of the tree is best.
Some trees will last from Thanksgiving weekend through the Christmas holiday and beyond if taken care of, but others, like the Norway Spruce, are better to purchase mid-December in order for them to last. Is it a fire hazard?
Keep the tree away from heat to avoid it drying out. Other than that, when people have a problem, it’s typically from the lights strung on the tree being old and having some sort of electrical issue, or a space heater set too close. Will a squirrel or other animal be in the tree when we get it home?
Unlikely. When the tree is cut down, shook and bound, any critters that may have been there have taken off. Birds’ nests are considered good luck and the staff at Whispering Pines checks for praying mantis eggs before loading your tree. If they find an egg sac, they keep them and replace them on other growing trees, a great way of getting rid of insects harmful to the trees.
If one is missed and you have a praying mantis hatching, simply get out your sweeper and clean them up. What about sap? Does everything become sticky?
No. Once the tree is cut down, the sap stops running. So, there may be a small amount of sap there, but overall, it’s not anything extreme like your hands sticking together or sap all over your ornaments. Is the clean up a pain?
We have large garbage bags that you can put under the legs of the stand. It’s almost like a tree skirt. When you’re ready to dispose of the tree, slide the bag up and over the trunk for an easy clean up. The trees are biodegradable. Look for a drop-off location near you for disposal.
Season Comes to End For Tri-West Bruins
The Bruins make their entrance to the cheers of their fans.
The Tri-West Bruins, after taking the 2021 Class 3A Regional Championship, lost their bid for the Semi-State title when they were defeated by the Gibson Southern Titans, 44-7, on the Bruins’ home field. Coach Jason Ward led the team to 11 wins and 2 losses during the season. They were ranked No. 10 in Class 3A, having defeated West Vigo, 62-12, to win the Regional and advance to Semi-State.
Tri-West’s Alex Covey (No. 35) catches a pass.
Plainfield Tri Kappa Hosts 50 th Gingerbread Christmas
Plainfield Tri Kappa is pleased to announce its Gingerbread Christmas arts and crafts show will be held on Saturday, December 4, at Plainfield High School, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our 130+ vendors put out their hand-crafted items for shoppers. Admission is $5
Tina Hayes, current President of the chapter, shared “This will be the 50th year the chapter will host the event. Plainfield Tri Kappa has been actively supporting the Plainfield community under its directive to further Charity, Culture and Education, since the chapter’s founding in 1938. At 72 current members we are one of the largest of the 143 chapters in this Indiana based organization.”
Proceeds from the event support local scholarships, children’s needs and numerous local organizations. Longtime member and a chairperson for the event, Kaye York commented, “We were greatly disappointed when COVID-19 concerns precluded our ability to host the event last December. However, we look forward to seeing you on December 4th to help us celebrate our 50th anniversary of the event!”
For more information about Plainfield Tri Kappa, and Gingerbread Christmas, visit us on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/GingerbreadChristmas or at our website at Plainfieldtrikappa.org.
The Hendricks County Community Foundation (HCCF) is encouraging Hendricks County residents to join together and give local on Giving Tuesday--November 30, 2021. Giving Tuesday is a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity. It inspires people to take action to improve their communities, give back in better, smarter ways to the charities and causes they believe in, and help create a better world. HCCF knows first-hand the profound impact our local nonprofits have on our community. These organizations--small and large, local and regional--have stepped up in incredible ways to continue serving our community throughout the pandemic, increasing services to more individuals in need. “Giving Tuesday is a great opportunity to provide support to our local nonprofits,” said William Rhodehamel, President and CEO of HCCF. “Together we have the power to transform Hendricks County into a more vibrant, giving community. We are so proud to give back to the local nonprofits who work tirelessly day in and day out to make our county the absolute best it can be.”
Nonprofits serving Hendricks County are encouraged to send one-minute videos to be shared on the HCCF Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/hendrickscountycommunityfoundation) on Giving Tuesday. These videos will be shared on Giving Tuesday to highlight local organizations to encourage charitable giving.
No matter what your passion is, HCCF hopes local residents find a Hendricks County nonprofit to give to this Giving Tuesday. If you’re undecided, HCCF is encouraging the community to give to HCCF’s Opportunity Fund, it’s largest unrestricted fund. This fund makes $70,000 in annual grants to nonprofits doing critical work in our community.
The Community Foundation is excited to see the impact of Giving Tuesday on our community this year. Remember, no matter what organization you support on Giving Tuesday, make sure it’s local. And join HCCF on Facebook for more details on Giving Tuesday.
If your nonprofit wishes to submit a video to be shared on Giving Tuesday, please contact Frances Mock, HCCF Communications and Finance Manager, at frances@hendrickscountycf.org or call 317.268.6240 for more details.
The Hendricks County Community Foundation partners with generous people to realize their charitable goals while addressing community needs in meaningful and lasting ways. The Community Foundation manages assets of over $20 million in a collection of funds created by individuals, families, businesses and organizations for charitable purposes. In 2020, the Community Foundation gave over $1.7M in grants to charitable organizations and scholarships to local students. For more information, call 317-268-6240 or visit www.hendrickscountycf.org.
