38 minute read
Hendricks County
‘Tis the Season to Catch a Holiday Performance
Community members had a blast this fall with a special musical cabaret presented by the HC Civic theater. The December production will be ”A Christmas Carol.”
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By Melissa Gibson
The holidays are often filled with tree lightings, family get-togethers and delicious food. Families enjoy outdoor activities like sledding, ice skating and Christmas caroling but don’t forget to throw in some indoor family entertainment as well.
The Hendricks Civic Theater will be presenting “A Christmas Carol” Dec. 9-12 and Dec. 16-19. Thursday through Saturday, there will be one performance at 7:30 p.m. and on Sundays at 2:30 p.m. at the Longstreet Playhouse, 4998 N CR 100 E in Danville.
What makes this holiday classic fun for the entire family is the lesson of redemption and compassion towards others when businessman Ebenezer Scrooge learns the power of loving others through three ghosts of past, present and future.
With Director Jake Nail, Narrator David Muller, Scrooge played by Bruce Crum, Tiny Tim played by Eli Neal and the three ghosts, Brittany Magee, Sloan Gilbert and Scott Post, audiences will be reminded of the moral of the Charles Dickens story, but also the effort and talent it takes to present the play to the community.
The staff at the Hendricks Civic Theater just recently re-opened their doors after a COVID-related hiatus, with fall performance, “I Hate Hamlet” and a recent musical/cabaret, “All Together Now”.
“Music Theater International (MTI) released a list of songs we could perform and we picked some from that list and had a fundraiser along with the Melanie and Rosalie Albright Foundation at the Royal Theater in Danville,” said Board member Karla Janning. “We were able to raise $2,000 and had a Hendricks County Community Foundation matching grant.”
The Civic Theater plans to use that grant to purchase equipment in order to stream their live shows. In fact, the first-time streaming was available was with the “All Together Now” performance and they plan to offer it again for “A Christmas Carol.”
“When we first reopened, we thought people were ready to come back and we did have people come to see the show,” Janning said. “We sold out one of the ‘All Together Now’ shows and the audience was so responsive and excited to be there. I think everyone is ready to spend time with family and friends for ‘A Christmas Carol’ and everything is moving in the right direction.”
Janning said the HC Civic Theater has already sold 100 tickets for the Christmas performances and those that want to attend should purchase tickets to their in-person live show or to stream at home. The Theater also offers annual ticket memberships as well.
HARPER WILLIAMS
On the HCT Facebook page, audience members can learn more about the cast, roles they are taking on for the first time or even the tenth time. Harper Williams is exchited to make her acting debut with the Hendricks Civic Theater. She is a 2nd grade student that loves reading and science. When not in school or playing with her friends, she loves to volunteer and serve her community. Harper thanks her parents for supporting and encouraging her love of acting.
Visit www.hendrickscivic.com for more information or to purchase tickets.
Another holiday show offered to Hendricks County is through The Biz Academy of Musical Theatre.
Elf the Musical will be presented on Dec. 3-5 and Dec. 10-12. Evening shows will be at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinees are offered at 3 p.m. at Danville High School.
The musical follows the holiday classic movie, Elf, starring Will Ferrell, in which an orphan finds himself at the North Pole and raised by elves. He makes a trip to New York City and hilarity ensues as he learns the lessons of being your true-self, forgiveness, understanding and of course, spreading Christmas cheer.
“This is our family show, so there are adults acting that haven’t been on stage for years or they’ve never done theatre before, but they’re doing it as a family with their kids,” said co-owner Jan Van Paris.
The performance stars 16-year-old, Danville student, Cameron Stewardson as Buddy the Elf along with a staff of 70 adults and children making the production a true community event.
The Biz offers classes throughout the year, continuing to develop their young thespians and will soon be participating in the Jr. Theatre Festival in Atlanta, GA.
“The kids to a 15-minute cut from one of their performances; this time they’ll be doing “Oliver” and then judges, often bigname professionals in the business will critique the performance and give them direction, which is pretty cool,” Van Paris said.
The experience allows students to meet other actors and actresses from across the globe, making winning a secondary goal.
The future is looking bright for the community theatre and they are hoping to re-launch Frozen Jr. this winter; a performance planned for 2020 they were forced to cancel. For now, supporting the community and enjoying an evening of holiday fun is on the minds of many as Christmas approaches.
All tickets to “Elf” must be purchased online to choose your reserved seating, in an effort to social distance.
To learn more or purchase tickets, visit https:// thebiz-academy.com
Herbicide Recertification Program
Crop producers in Hendricks and Putnam County can get their Private Applicators Recertification Program credits Dec. 15 at no cost in Roachdale.
Hendricks and Putnam County Soil & Water Conservation Districts join in offering the program at the Off The Rails Event Center, 5 Railroad St., from 9-11a.m.
Indiana Soybean Alliance and Indiana Corn Marketing Council cover the PARP credit costs with checkoff funds.
Free credits offered to program participants: PARP, CCH Category 1 and RT (pending), 1`CEU Integrated Pest Management and 1 CEU Crop Management.
Kurt Lanzone, Purdue Extension, will discuss cover crop termination options in a tight herbicide supply market.
Jenna Nees, Purdue Extension/PutnamCounty SWCD, will talk about pesticide minibulks.
Register for the program at https://tinyurl.com/PurduePARP2021, or call Purdue Extension, (765) 653- 8411.
Door Hanger Crusade
On December 4, Trinity Life Ministry from Crawfordsvilleand Community Transformation Partners from Lizton will be hanging door hangers on doors in Lizton. They will not knock on doors or intrude on your time. This is sponsored by the Lizton Christian Church.
For more information, join us on Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. at 202 Church Street or call 317- 994-5452.
The little white church with big hearts. Wear what you want and sing in any key. All are welcome.
Helen Keller
Plainfield Merchant Chatter
Shirt Tales Screen Printing 125 West Main Street, Plainfield, IN 46168 We want to thank everyone for always supporting our local Main Street Businesses in Plainfield! We have a special “Shop Local” Tshirt available at a special rate: $12!
Come on in and pick out your favorite color shirt in your size and we will press this modern and fun “Shop Local” design while you wait.
We also have some really cool Christmas and Holiday designs available! Just come in, pick out a shirt in stock (we have all colors and sizes) and we will have you in the Holiday spirit in no time!
Feel free to call or email us with any questions or orders at: 317-839-9835; shirttales83@gmail.com
Book Signing at Plainfield
DAVID MATHEWS
Timber City Coffee & Tea Company, 2481 E. Main, Suite 190, Plainfield, will host a book signing on- Saturday, Dec. 11, from 1-4 p.m.
Meet David Mathews, former Plainfield resident and 1975 PHS graduate. He will be signing copies of his books, “Fugitive of Faith” and “A Future and a Hope.”
For more information about Mathews, visit www. davidjmathews.com.
It’s Not Too Late - Volunteers Are Still Needed for the Holidays
Different volunteer opportunities are offered between now and Dec. 11, such as sorting and packing the food items.
By Melissa Gibson
For over 40 years Project A.N.G.E.L. has been providing Christmas for families in need throughout the county. Volunteers and sponsors collect clothing, toys and other gifts in the fall, delivering the items to families prior to Christmas.
COVID brought many families to their knees financially over the past two years and Project A.N.G.E.L. saw the need through applications sent in for assistance.
“Last year we had 150 families and 450 kids,” said McKenzie Crose, President of the non-profit. “This year, we’re still finishing up applications (the deadline was Nov. 10) and we have 300 kids so far.”
McKenzie said many people like to give and want to help, but don’t know how to go about it. Project A.N.G.E.L. has worked to make the process as easy as possible.
Individuals or businesses can sign up to be a sponsor, responsible for one child’s wish list. They shop for the items and deliver them to one of four drop off locations. Each child’s list is approximately $250 to $300.
If sponsoring a child is not possible for your family, you might choose to pick an angel from the angel tree located at 18 small businesses across the county. Each “angel” will list one item to purchase and deliver (unwrapped) to the drop-off location.
“We have had some changes in storage space and may have purchased things in the past that a child didn’t ask for, so we thought, ‘Why not get the small businesses involved’, it’ll keep things more organized and the new process has been super helpful and allows the community to be more involved,” Crose said.
Tree locations include Energy Spot Brownsburg in Brownsburg, Outta the Shed in Plainfield, Cabin Coffee in Avon and Danville Christian Church in Danville among many others.
All angel tree gifts should be delivered to the location you picked up from by Nov. 30.
After Nov. 30th, the Project A.N.G.E.L. volunteers will use funds to purchase any items that may have been left behind, exchange clothing if necessary and other general preparation.
The organization aims to not only deliver Christmas gifts to each family, but also to provide a turkey or ham for Christmas dinner, one box of food per member of the household and wrapping supplies.
The food is collected through the annual food drive by Avon Community School Corporation’s student government team. Beginning Nov. 29 through Dec. 10, students will collect food at all schools in the school system and drop off to Project A.N.G.E.L. at Avon United Methodist Church.
Community volunteers can then sign up on the Project A.N.G.E.L. Face Book page to sort the food collected and prepare for delivery day.
Beginning at 8 a.m. on Sat. Dec. 11, the community is needed for the culmination of all of this hard work – delivery day.
Meet at Avon United Methodist Church at 8 a.m., pickup a few bags of gifts, food and more and receive the address to deliver to; once you’ve delivered a set, come back and pick up another for a day of giving back with your family.
Ultimately, it’s all about giving to others during this special time of year.
“I think we’re giving people by nature,” Crose said. “Even if you just participate on delivery day, you can see that you’re helping another family. For our volunteers, I think it makes you appreciative, you don’t realize things could be a lot more difficult. Sometimes we need that reminder, to not take things for granted and you’re doing something for your county and your community and that’s a huge thing.”
All information can be found on the Project A.N.G.E.L. Hendricks County Facebook page, including lists of Angel Tree locations, signups to help sort food and prepackage gifts.
The entire community is invited to come out for delivery day on Saturday, Dec. 11 at Avon United Methodist Church.
McKenzie Crose of Project A.N.G.E.L recently sat down with Brownsburg radio host Shane Ray from WYRZ.
Publisher’s Point of View
Class Time
Last week, Danville Middle School Teacher Mrs. McRoberts stopped by with a handful of her students. They wanted to learn a little bit about an old-fashioned way of communicating to the community. The all-but-forgotten forerunner of Twitter, Facebook and Instagram all rolled up in one. It is called a “newspaper.”
The name kind of says it all. Local news all inked up on some paper. Newspaper. Brilliant. These whippersnappers really seemed to enjoy learning about the history of The Republican and they really like learning about the equipment that was once used to print the newspaper right there in the building.
The history and the equipment are fun but the reason we have the cool equipment and the unparalleled history of Hendrick County on our shelves is because of what the newspaper is to a community. It is a record of events. It is a celebration of achievements. It is an announcement of marriages and children born. It is a remembrance of those that have passed. It is a receptacle of lessons learned, both hard and fruitful. It is a voice. It is a responsibility.
It’s hard to say how much these young future leaders will take away from this almost insignificant field trip to see the old dorky way of spreading the news, but one thing is certain. The pages of this old-fashioned, unsexy newspaper will be there to celebrate their achievements and their parents will come in to buy extra copies.
And 100 years from now, just maybe, a handful of students from the Danville Middle School will make a similar visit to the newspaper and read this story and look at these pictures of the young men and women that had a field trip to the local newspaper.
What a Newspaper Is
It is a library. It is an encyclopedia, a poem, a history, a dictionary, a time table, a romance, a guide to poitical resume, a ground plan of the civilized world, a low-priced multum in parvo. It is a sermon, a song, a circus, a shipwreck, a symphony in solid brevier, a medley of life and death, a grand aggregation of man’s glory and his shame. It is, in short, a bird’s eye view of all the magnanimity and meaness, the joys and sorrows, births and deaths, the pride and poverty of the world, all for a few cents.
- Bill Nye
HCJ’s 4 th In2Work Class Earns Certificates
Pictured left to right: Captain Megen Morgan, Greg Denbo, Logan Smith, Kenny Phillips, Sheriff Brett Clark, In2Work Instructor Dave Neeley
A graduation is something to celebrate, no matter the time or place. Recently, the 4th class of the In2Work program at the Hendricks County Jail completed the course and received their certificates.
The In2Work program is operated by Aramark, an established leader in the food service industry, within the Hendricks County Jail. In the three-phase program students learn kitchen basics and can earn their “ServeSafe” Certification.
“It takes 4-6 weeks in order to teach both our In2Work Kitchen Basics and the ServeSafe material,” explained In- 2Work instructor David Neeley. “Then we schedule a graduation.”
This is the fourth class, but the third graduation. Because of COVID, the second and third classes were combined for one ceremony.
For their “final test” the class made brunch, consisting of quiche, banana walnut muffins and fresh fruit, which they enjoyed along with invited guests. The graduates received their training certificates, as well as their ServeSafe certificates, which are required to work in the food service industry and good for five years. Upon release, they can apply for a $2,500 scholarship that can be used further education in any field. They will also receive an app that will help them find job openings at any location where they may be looking for work.
Sheriff Brett Clark is proud of this program and the fact that Hendricks County was the first jail in the state to use it to improve inmates’ opportunities for a better life. There are now 14 inmates graduated through this program.
Members of the class are Greg Denbo, Logan Smith, and Kenny Phillips. Each class member shared thoughts about their experience:
Logan Smith: “I want to say thank you to Dave, Aramark, and Hendricks County for giving me the opportunity to take this class. I feel like by having this credential under my belt, it’ll be a lot easier for me to find work since I’m a convicted felon. This class helped me realize that if I put my mind to something, I can do it.”
Greg Denbo: “I want to thank Dave for sharing his time and knowledge with us and giving us the chance to experience the In2Work program. I learned a lot of information about the food industry that I will use in the near future. I will share the information I’ve learned from him to others when I get out. I will recommend to anyone to experience the In2Work program.”
Kenny Phillips: “I would like to thank Dave and Hendricks County and everyone else who allowed this opportunity to take place. I wanted to take this class just for life skills in the beginning. But it became very interesting. Then I realized it can help me in the future when I’m out. Being a convicted felon it makes it a little difficult to get jobs. This opportunity just gives me hope that I can secure a job and this program can possibly keep people like myself from being repeat offenders.”
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.
North Salem Local & Social
We have so much to be thankful for. When you see so many other countries and their riots, droughts, floods, and troubles, I am thankful for what we have. I know we have many problems, but our blessings outweigh the heartache of many. We must be thankful and pray of love, peace, friendship, health and happiness for all. God’s blessings to all.
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Jim and Barb Oliver hosted Barb’s daughter, Lori, for Thanksgiving. They didn’t have turkey and all the fixings because they were doing that on the following Saturday, when daughter Melani and her husband, Dane, and son, Ethan, were celebrating with them. Both days were special and enjoyed by all.
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A long Thanksgiving week. So many celebrating at different times and days. We are thankful for all.
Glenn Pearcy returned home from a trip with old “ole” buddies to Pennsylvania the past week. Thanksgiving Day, Glenn and Phyllis spent with Brian Hauk and family at Shelbyville.
Calls to many: Woody and Alice Pritchett, their daughter Lana and family were here from Colorado and all spent Thanksgiving Day with Larry and family.
John and Dixie Harnishfeger hosted their family, John Michael and Brook and Bryley and David and Tracy Black and Mila Jo for Thanksgiving. Karen Hardman and Tinie called later in the day.
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Gene McCullough, Robb Deffanbaugh and Jim enjoyed Thanksgiving with Scott Deffanbaugh and other family members at Lebanon. Gene visited his sister, Joyce Robinson, and other family members Friday.
Betty Hopkins at Brownsburg enjoyed her family Thanksgiving Day.
Called Billy and Elaine Tyson, they were having Thanksgiving. Called Jim Bryant and Dan Brown at Lebanon, Rowena Morris, Joyce Larmer, Jane Barnhardt, Kevin, Tammy and Brandy, Sandy Hardin spent Thanksgiving with Chad Hardin and family and Cory Hardin and Olivia, and Nonie Delp. Alta Trump hosted all of her family on Thanksgiving.
So many drop-ins. Was so happy to have Kara and Kaden Hankins, enjoyed them so much. Kara already a Junior at Purdue. She was going out to visit Grandma Karen Williams before she had to return to school. Also saw Doug Fraizer, Dixie Harnishfeger, Gene McCullough, Rick and Karen.
Called Rowena Morris, Anne McIntyre, Becky Graham,who reported Cindy and Greg both feeling much better, Kiley looking forward to Christmas.
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Left out from those attending Chili Supper last week: Kyle Miller and Hannah and children Addie and Dawson.
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Sympathy for the family of Thomas Dinkel, who passed Nov. 33.
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People are sure happy to have the Dollar General Store here. Making good use of it.
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Monday: Ron hasn’t forgotten us. Out checking the street this a.m. - Thanks, Ron, we really appreciate you.
No, I haven’t forgotten people (even Jesus) have birthdays, etc. in December. Just takes time to make list:
Dec. 4 - North Salem State Bank Employees Christmas Get-together with dinner at Hendricks County Fairgrounds. They always have Ugly Christmas Sweater contest. They wish to all a Merry Christmas Holiday and Good Wishes for the New Year. God Bless.
Dec. 5 - Ted Lieske passed 12 years ago; Tammy Childers’ Mom, Loretta, passed 7 years ago.
Dec. 6 - Bootsie passed 4 years ago; Dec. 6 - Bob Dinsmore passed 2 years ago.
Dec. 7 - Can you believe my babies Jenny Lee and Buddy will celebrate their 7th birthday!
Dec. 8 - Amanda Dowell, 49th birthday.
Dec. 10 - Jenny Baenziger’s 38th birthday; Deondre Boller’s 26th birthday; Debbie Marlin Kroger’s birthday.
Dec. 11 - Treva Himsel’s birthday.
Dec. 15 - Carole Clonc’s birthday.
Dec. 16 - Karla Carter’s Big 4th birthday.
Dec. 20 - Levi and Brittany Riggs, 13th anniversary.
Dec, 22 - Suzanne Pence, 11th birthday; Micah and Kelly’s 4th anniversary.
Dec. 23 - Peter Baenziger’s 38th birthday; Emily Hanson’s birthday (won’t tell!)
Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve.
Dec, 25 - Merry Christmas, Happy New Year.
Dec. 26 - Sam’s (Cody) 27th birthday.
Dec. 29 - Jonathan and Sarah’s 15th anniversary; Maggie Jo Baenziger’s 7th birthday.
Dec. 30 - Happy birthday to our special friend, Mark Basham (67th) - Love you, Mark; Izzy Basham’s 8th birthday.
Dec. 31 - Happy birthday Gerald Whiles, Our Home Town Boy!
Happy New Year!
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Home Town News
Terri at Garden Gate, 103 W. Pearl St., Ph 765- 676-5039, says she and Doc have lots of Holiday Centerpieces, Christmas saddles, fresh Christmas flower pieces, other Christmas arrangements and many gifts and packages available at the shop at the above address. Open House will be observed Dec. 4, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Dec. 11, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.. Do drop in and shop around, enjoy the Holiday festivities. Doc is always happy to have company - Terri, too!
Don’t forget Perillo’s have Christmas gift certificates available. Make real nice gifts that can be used later. Always great food.
Millers Sundries & Antiques a great place to shop - have delicious ice cream, too - orange-pineapple a favorite of many.
And don’t forget Smitty’s Hardware. Those useful gifts are appreciated. Amanda and all her helpers will be there to help.
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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.
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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.
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NOTICE Clayton Cemetery Election Meeting Officers of the corporation and members of the Board of Directors will be elected by members.
Date and Time: December 6th, 2021 at 7:00 PM, in the Clayton Cemetery office.
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Garden Club Poetry Contest Winners
The Hendricks County Garden Club announced the winners of their 2021 Youth Poetry Contest. Winning their grade-level are: First Grade: Amelia S., Avon; Fourth Grade: Emma Burleson., Danville; and Sixth Grade: Victoria Camloh, Danville. All three winning poems will now be entered into the state youth poetry contest of The Garden Club of Indiana. State winners will move on to the national competition of the National Garden Clubs.
The theme for the contest was “Sing with the Songbirds – Exploring the Glory of Nature.” Download a free copy of the winning poems booklet at: https://bit.ly/HCGC_PoetryWinners2021.
First Grade Winner Amelia S., Avon
The Little Bird The little bird loved to fly The little bird loved the sky The little bird flew to its nest The little bird took a rest The little bird wok and sang a song The little children sang along
Fourth Grade Winner: Emma Burleson, Danville
Songbirds are Everywhere Songbirds are Everywhere, I see them in the air.
You can follow them where they fly, They are very high in the sky.
Songbirds are beautiful creatures,
Listen to them sing something nice.
Sixth Grade Winner: Victoria Camloh, Danville Morning Chimes
Every day that passes by — each morning at the exact same time — I wake up to a symphony of clanking morning chimes.
They sing a new song every day, each lovely and sublime, I listen to the wind’s sweet instrument: those clanking morning chimes.
I lay awake in bed at night way past my bedtime, knowing mornings will not be the same without those clanking morning chimes.
Hendricks County Honor Guard Pays Tribute
The Hendricks County Honor Guard’s goal is to pay tribute and respect towards fallen brothers and sisters.
The Honor Guard also serves at various community events like parades, sporting events and more.
By Melissa Gibson
If you’ve ever attended the funeral of a veteran, you may have seen the 21-gun salute, heard “Taps” played and watched the American flag folded and presented to the veteran’s spouse.
What you may not have known at the time, was those that perform the ceremony are volunteers.
Mike Ries is the Communication Officer for the Hendricks County Honor Guard and says the group is actively recruiting members at this time.
“Members can be prior military or a non-military person that is just willing to give back to their community,” Ries said. “We currently have 28 members. Once you get in contact, we ask that you attend three funerals so you can see what exactly it is that we do to be sure you are interested. You are given two short sleeve shirts, two long sleeve shirts, slacks, a winter coat, a raincoat and shoes for free.” In fact, members of the Hendricks County Honor Guard do not have monthly dues at all; everything is free to the volunteer.
The Honor Guard was formed in 1999 when the family of a deceased prisoner of war wanted to find someone to perform the 21-gun salute and “Taps,” prompting a group from the VFW to get together and give the veteran a funeral with honors.
Today, the volunteer organization is the only one in the local area. They perform at funerals of any person honorably discharged and has some connection to Hendricks County, taking them as far away as Putnam County, Boone County and surrounding areas.
Funeral homes are aware of the group and know who to call when they’ve been contacted for a veteran funeral but its not just funerals that the men and women attend.
“We do other events,” Ries said. “For instance, we were just recently in Danville, presenting colors at the basketball game. We’ve presented colors at our County Fair, at the Quakers Day Parade and at Night Out Against Crime activities.”
They also support groups like the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts wanting to earn their flag badge and they’ve taught many how to properly fold the American flag.
The Honor Guard meets twice per month in Pittsboro to hold a business meeting and practice their presentation. They stay busy – attending nine funerals in one week this past September, among other events.
Participation may be something many don’t understand, but those that have served or have a family member that has served, understand it all-too-well.
“For a lot of us, myself included, it’s a way to honor those men and women who have served prior to me. They gave me the freedom to join the military and it’s my way of giving back to them,” Ries said.
They also understand the meaning behind each symbolic portion of the ceremony.
“It’s like saying goodbye to your fallen brothers and sisters. These are symbols of sacrifice; these guys were fighting for freedom and being able to fly their flag and live free. There are many that don’t know the history, don’t know how the American flag came about and what these symbols mean,” Ries said.
If interested in joining the Hendricks County Honor Guard, reach out to Commander Mike Letournaeu at 317- 514-4662 or Vice Commander Andy Eldred at 317-726- 6701.
Presenting colors at school and community events is another way of honoring those that have served.
Final Tribute
What does the 21-gun salute symbolize?
The 21-gun salute is an old battlefield custom. The two waring sides would cease to fight, allowing time for troops to retrieve their fallen brothers and sisters from the battlefield. The three volleys from seven rifles signified that the dead were cleared and properly cared for. Spent cartridges are often presented to a family member, representing duty, honor and sacrifice. What is the significance of the folding of the American flag?
Members of the Honor Guard or members of the deceased military branch will carefully fold the casket flag, with the blue field of stars facing up. The flag is then presented to the next of kin as a symbol of gratitude for the veteran’s service. What is the significance of “Taps” being played at military funerals? During the Civil War, General Butterfield was not pleased with the call for ‘lights out’ to signify the end of each day at war. He enlisted bugler Oliver Wilcox Norton and together, they wrote the well-known tune to honor the men at the end of the day. The trumpet call eventually came to signify the end of a soldier’s day.
New Executive Director for Leadership Hendricks County
Jana Morrison is joining Leadership Hendricks County as our the Executive Director. Her appointment follows an exhaustive search and a strong recommendation by a hiring committee made up of representatives from the LHC Board and other LHC alumni.
While Jana may be newto LHC, she’s very familiar with their programs. Husband Ryan was a member of the LHC Class of 2016 and son Hayes was in the 2016- 17 Youth Leadership class. During the interview process, Jana noted that the impact the program had on them played a big part in her decision to apply for the Executive Director’s position.
JANA MORRISON
Jana has been an invested member of Brownsburg and the greater Hendricks County community since moving to the area in 2005.
For the past seven years, Jana has served the Director of THE WELL Community Center in Brownsburg. In that span of leadership, the Center has grown to welcome over 20,000 people from the Hendricks County community for open play hours for families, private events, corporate training, outreach, seasonal activities and various local business meetings. In addition, Jana was the facility manager of THE WELL’s 40,000+ square foot facility, managing multiple tenants, overseeing day-to-day operations and handling on-site issues.
Jana’s education in wellness (BS in Kinesiology from the University of Arkansas; MS in Exercise Science, MS in Sports Medicine from United States Sports Academy, Mobile, AL) have equipped her to work with individuals and organizations to improve work/life balance and overall health. Her past experience includes being the Wellness Director at Wise Regional Health in Decatur, Texas, a Community Wellness Instructor for Brownsburg Parks, and a Wellness Coach for Salesforce. Jana’s heart to volunteer and give back have led her to serve on local boards and community service organizations.
Jana is the mother of three (Hayes, Youth LHC Class of 2017, Evan, Abigail) and wife of Ryan (23 years), LHC Class of 2016. In her free time, she loves the outdoors, hanging with her family, listening to a good book while drinking a great cup of coffee. She loves to workout, give back to her church, share a laugh with friends and be inspired by local heroes.
Her first day with LHC will be December 1. She’ll work closely with Susan Rozzi and Program Director Dani Smith to become familiar with the workings of LHC and get to know the program’s key stakeholders.
Hendricks Symphony Presents Sounds of The Season Concert
The Hendricks Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Benjamin G. Del Vecchio presents “Sounds of the Season, a concert, on Friday, December 10, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 12, 2021 at 3 p.m. at Calvary United Methodist Church (575 W. Northfield Drive, Brownsburg.) This concert is the annual holiday concert that will be comprised of familiar holiday songs and the opportunity to sing along to some familiar carols with the chorus.
Tickets for Sounds of the Season are available at the door for $18 adult, $15 senior and $7 student (with I.D.)
Discounted tickets may be purchased online at HendricksSymphony.org/season-outlook or at the following locations: Brownsburg, Clayton and Danville Public Libraries, Hendricks County Bank, Hendricks County Branches of the State Bank, and Hendricks County Branches of North Salem State Bank. The discounted ticket price is $15 adults, $12 seniors and $5 for students with I.D.
In an effort to ensure the safety of our patrons, all Hendricks Symphony musicians and support staff are fully vaccinated. The Symphony is obligated to follow the church’s guidelines, and to inform our patrons that we intend to do so.
The Republican Receives Certificate from DAR Chapter
The Wa-Pe-Ke-Way Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution presented The Republican Newspaper with a Certificate of Award on behalf of the DAR Public Relations and Media Committee.
The award was presented to Republican owner Jerry Vornholt and Editor Betty Bartley by Chapter Regent Carey Wilson and Public Relations and Media Chapter Chair in appreciation and recognition of their continued support of the missions of Wa-Pe-Ke-Way Chapter, NSDAR of patriotism, education and historic preservation through publication and promotion of events and activities for the residents of Hendricks County.
Ancient Ceremony Dedicates New North Salem School
Three goblets, containing corn, oil and wine, were placed on a table as part of the Masonic cornerstone dedication ceremonhy.
A small crowd gathered in the gymnasium of the North Salem elementary school on November 13, to witness an ancient ritual.
Members of the Daniel L. Martin, Grand Master of Masons in the State of Indiana, along with Indiana Grand Lodge officers and Past Grand Masters, came to perform the traditional ceremony to dedicate the cornerstone for the new North Salem Elementary School.
Masonic officials entered the gymnasium and were escorted by members of the Young Marines, carrying the United States and State of Indiana flags.
Danile L. Martin, Grand Master of Masons in Indiana, welcomed the audience to the ceremony by giving a history of the symbolism it contains.
Using ancient tools, Masonic Officers checked the stone to be certain that it was square, plumb (straight) and level, to insure a strong foundation.
(At right) After the ceremony, Grand Master Martin proclaimed “I hereby declare this cornerstone to be duly laid, square, level and plumb and may the Grand Architect of Heaven and Earth, bless the work here begun, and crown this splendid edifice with every success; and may it be considered, for time immemorial, a model of taste and genius and serve to transmit with honor to posterity the names of the artists engaged in it.”
He then presented a certificate to North Salem Elementary Principal Tiffany Cox.
(Below) The North Salem Elementary Choir performed as part of the program.
The cornerstone was consecrated with corn, wine, and oil, Masonic symbols of prosperity, health, and peace.
For the Hendricks County Community Foundation, our goal is simple: We want to make Hendricks County a better place. A better place to live, work and play. To raise a family. To feel welcome and comfortable. To attend school. To be with friends. To grow.
Our Board, staff and volunteers work hard all year to realize those goals. We do this by funding the important work that many other nonprofits in our community are doing. That funding is accomplished through our grantmaking – and this year to date those grants total over $1.7 million! The grants are made possible by the generous people who’ve partnered with us to realize the charitable goal of making our community better. It’s a win-win-win!
The work we do comes at a cost. Did you know HCCF needs to raise approximately 40% of our annual operating budget from the community every year to make that work possible? We must ask individuals and businesses in our county to invest in our daily work – partnering with donors, making important grants and scholarship awards to address immediate needs, and leading in our community.
We’ve shared how proud we are to be celebrating 25 years of service to Hendricks County in 2021. Won’t you support us? To put it simply: HCCF cannot continue to address the greatest needs and continue our success as a leader in our community without your financial support.
We see our home as a vibrant, giving community, and we’re on a quest to make our great community even better – today and tomorrow. We need your help to realize that goal and expand our work in Hendricks County.
Please give today!
Holly Covers Holiday Beat in Danville
Holly, The Great Dane of Danville and The Republican’s rovering reporter tried to blend in with the crowd as she covered Christmas on the Square last Friday evening. Alas, not even a holiday sweater could make our correspondent inconspicuous and she met a fair share of new fans as she tried to get the crowd estimate.
Shop Small, Shop Early
Visitors to Christmas on the Square did some of their Shop Small Saturday on Friday night. Some were discovering Danville’s unique local shops for the first time, while others were regular customers looking to see what’s new. At Forget Me Nots, vintage items mixed with modern woodcraft keep the cashiers busy.
Local crafters were ready to display their wares at The She Shed, 117 S. Washington.
Seize the Night’s unique boutique attracted shoppers looking for something for that hard-to-buy-for person on their lists.
The Authors Porch had a place to young writers to pen a note to Santa.
DCMS SPORTS SCOREBOARD
BASKETBALL DCMS v. Cascade The eighth grade Warrior boys’ basketball “A” team lost a close game to Cascade 47-41. The boys battled hard, but just came up short. DCMS v. Lebanon The eighth grade Warriors had two exciting barn burner games against Lebanon. Danville “A” Team defeated Lebanon 44-41. In the “A” game it went into overtime. Danville forced 22 Lebanon Tiger Turnovers. Eli Tricker had 27 points on 50% shooting (11-22) and 5-8 three pointers for 63%. Landon Kinser hit a big free throw in overtime to seal the game. Ethan Wooten had a big steal and basket in overtime. Seth Dennison pulled down a huge offensive rebound in the overtime. Danville “B” team picked up a victory defeating Lebanon 22-20.
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.
Traffic Signs Changing on Lincoln St.
Please be advised that the Town of Danville will be removing the East and West Bound Stop Signs on Lincoln Street at Kentucky Street.
Lincoln Street will now be a through roadway from Cross Street (SR 39) to Mackey Road (CR 75 W).
Kentucky Street traffic will still be required to stop both North Bound and South Bound at Lincoln Street. This was based on a required traffic study.
This process will take effect on December 13, 2021.
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.
2021 Tox-Away Days Results
The results are in and the 2021 Tox-Away Days were a success. Five Tox- Away Days were taken advantage of by 4,135 users, who proprerly recycled and disposed of 361,343 lbs. of chemicals, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, tires, elctronics and appliances.
For more informationand ideas about recycling, ivisit RecycleHendricks- County.org.
Online Gift Guide
Visit Hendricks County has complied an online gift guide at www.VisitHendricksCounty.com/gft.
Check out this guide to find one-of-a-kind gifts–. unique gifts for every member of the family, including jewelry, food, stocking stuffers, home decor, art, crafts, fun experiences and so much more. Stay updated at VisitHendricksCounty.Com or on Facebook, Twitter, or the Hendricks County Insider blog.
BHS Band Marches in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Photos by Kevin McCormick / groupphotos.com
The Sound of Brownsburg was heard at the 95th New York City Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The band had been scheduled to appear in the 2020 parade, but it was cancelled due to the pandemic. This year, Macy’s honored all of there cancelled performances. The band, led by band director Chris Kaflik, agreed that being a part of the parade was an unforgettable experience.
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 aspects of 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.
Transportation For Seniors
Hendricks County Senior Services provides transportation services to anyone, 60 or older, needing a ride within Hendricks County. Transportation is provided for daily necessities, like medical appointments, grocery shopping, legal, social service, financial business, nutrition sites, and other life-essential service destinations. This service is provided on a donation basis.
Transportation services are provided by properly licensed staff who receive regular appropriate training. We are committed to the safe operation and maintenance of our vehicles, including the safe boarding and unloading of passengers.
Appointments are made on a first come/first served basis for door-to-door transportation (including wheelchair transport, portable oxygen, attendants, and service animals) for destinations in Hendricks County.
Transportation is available five days a week during office hours (6 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Service is not available on holidays or when weather is inclement.
To make an appointment call 317-718-4474. It is suggested that you call as far in advance as possible.
Volunteer Needed for Hendricks County Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels delivers a nutritious, hot meal to homebound residents of Hendricks County. The 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, HCMealsonWheels.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.
